The warmth from your home ventilation system can attract critters in the winter. Unfortunately, HVAC ducts can be a good place for wild animals to hunker down. This article will explore the ways that wildlife can break into your ducts and the type of damage they can cause.
Dens in the Ductwork
Rats, squirrels, raccoons, and more can find a way to enter your ducts. They may squeeze through an exhaust exit or find a way in from your home’s interior vents. They may even decide to den within. When an animal dens in your ductwork, your central air system can blow all sorts of smells and disease-ridden particles through your home. Scat, urine, fur, odors, and more can blow through your ducts and out into the rest of the home. Your air filters can only stop so much.
Dead Critters in Your HVAC Ducts
While nesting in your HVAC ducts can be a problem, a dead animal can be worse. It is not uncommon for animals to seek shelter in which to pass away. A dead animal in your ducts can create many of the above problems, while also bringing with it the stench of death and decay. When an animal is sick or dying, it may move deeper to where it feels safer. This can make them particularly difficult to clear from the ventilation system.
Chewing through Ductwork
Rodents can also gnaw their way into the ducts. They can also chew through sealants. This can create gaps for air to flow out. Ultimately, this will lead to drafts, inefficient air flow, and wasted energy. Rodents may also drag insulation, cardboard, and other materials into the ducts to create nests. This can further hinder airflow within the duct.
Outdoor HVAC Units
Most central air systems have an outdoor unit on the ground or roof. Snakes, birds, and rodents can use this as a potential den. This can create issues such as damaged fan blades, debris in your unit, and more. They can also affect air intake into the system. Wild animals can cause damage to the heating or coolant systems within the unit. Animals in your exterior unit could have severe consequences for the life of your central air system.