Are you concerned about pests and HVAC? Although it’s rare, it can happen, particularly in a climate like ours that’s warm and humid, which creates a fine habitat for creepy crawlies. If you’re worried about insect pests and HVAC infiltration, read on. 

What Kinds of Insects?

Insect infestation in an HVAC system is rare because in most cases, the components don’t offer insects the kind of environment they need. Let’s look at the ductwork: Ducts can develop holes or cracks, or the segments may come apart. This allows insect pests (and rodents) to get inside, but the extreme cold or hot air rushing through the ductwork is not conducive to the creatures building nests or reproducing. A few types of beetles or cockroaches might try to enter the home through the ductwork, but if this is a concern, contact an HVAC service that does duct cleaning. Also, ducts should be repaired so that no other critters can get in, furthering your home’s unwanted link between pests and HVAC.

Homeowners are often concerned that damp, moldy conditions on the indoor side of the HVAC system may be attracting roaches or mosquitoes. Again, this environment is not optimum for these insects to nest in, but if you suspect this is happening, then call a pest-control company to deal with it.

Spiders might enter your vents and build webs to catch other insects, but you can just vacuum the vents and all should be well. 

Two of the more worrisome infestations you may have to deal with involve your outdoor compressor/condenser. Despite the noise and heat the condenser puts off, some insects find it to be a nice, covered habitat for nests. Watch out for wasps, which have a painful sting. Wasps are pollinators, so if you can drive them off by spraying their nest with a hose, that’s better than using insecticide. Another serious pest is the crazy ant, which is attracted to the AC’s electronic components. Ants burrowing in spaces where they touch electrical contact points can cause malfunction and permanent damage.

Having a Preventative Maintenance Plan  helps reduce downtime with equipment failure due to insect pests.  For more on pests and HVAC, contact Powers Heating and Air of Peachtree City.