People in North America rely so much on their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to survive boiling hot summers and freezing cold winters. The indoor air quality at home also is based on the condition of the HVAC. When it’s not working as it should be, residents are at risk of experiencing respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, sneezing, and so on. So, it can be frustrating when it breaks down just when people need it the most.
Little do we know that these systems could be damaged if we don’t take the proper steps to protect them. We may not realize it, but animals can cause huge problems for our HVAC systems––even ones in the attic! Below, we detail how you can prevent common types of animal damage to your home’s HVAC system.
Beware of Attic Critters
Raccoons are one of the most common culprits of HVAC damage. They climb into the attic via the vent pipes and then tear them apart with their claws or teeth. Raccoons also like to chew on plastic components like wire insulation, which can cause sparks that lead to fire hazards. They may even break into your crawlspace and dig a hole to gain access to your home.
Squirrels can also be a nuisance since they love chewing on wires. This is not only dangerous but expensive as well because you have to pay for the replacement of damaged parts––and it may even require an entire rewiring of the system! They can also enter through vents and ducts and use your attic as a nesting site.
Bats like to roost in the attic and can be very difficult to evict because they’re great climbers. They can also spread diseases, such as rabies and histoplasmosis.
There are a few things you can do to protect your HVAC system from raccoons and squirrels. One is to install wire mesh over the vents to keep them from getting in. You can also clean up your yard and get rid of any debris that could attract these animals. Finally, make sure your attic is well-sealed so they can’t get in. If you already have an infestation, you may need to call a professional to get rid of the animals.
Your Pet’s Shedding Clogs Filters
Pets shed. Even so-called hypoallergenic pets shed a little bit of fur throughout the year which can fly around the house and clog filters. It can damage your HVAC. Your furnace, for example, will have to work harder to blow hot air and warm the entire house. Push it too hard and it will break. You’ll need to call a furnace repair service to get it fixed in the middle of winter.
Clogged filters are one of the most common causes of reduced airflow in HVAC systems. This can lead to a number of problems, including increased energy usage, decreased comfort levels, and even equipment failure. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s likely that your filters are clogged and need to be cleaned or replaced.
There are a few ways to clean or replace clogged filters. If you have a disposable filter, you can simply remove it and clean it off with a hose or vacuum cleaner. If the filter is washable, you can soak it in hot water and detergent before rinsing and air-drying it. If your filter is damaged or worn out, you’ll need to replace it with a new one.
Look Out for Tiny Crawlers
Bugs can also cause damage to your HVAC. Don’t underestimate them because they’re small. Many of them are more resistant to extreme temperatures than people realize, which is why their tiny bodies can survive in the ducts and vents even during the winter. Some bugs will stay dormant after entering your home through an open window or door, but they may become active at night when you’re asleep. They then crawl into various places that are warmer, making your HVAC unit a prime spot for them to hang out.
You can avoid this problem by keeping all windows and doors shut, especially at night when bugs are most active. You should also make sure that screens are in place or repaired if they’re damaged. If you think you have an infestation, the best course of action is to call a pest control company for help.
If you’re not sure what kind of animal is meddling with your HVAC system, it’s best to call in the professionals. They’ll be able to fully inspect and assess the problem and provide you with an effective solution. There are many ways animals can damage your home HVAC unit, but with a little preventative maintenance, you can help make sure the animals stay out and your system runs smoothly.