Four Easy Ways to Prevent Rodents from Damaging Your A/C

Mice and other rodents have a habit of making themselves at home in air conditioning units. Those large, warm spaces make them feel comfortable and safe. But once these intruders move in, they can wreak havoc on your A/C and find a direct path into your home.  Proper annual maintenance with a technician is one way to keep your air conditioner and home pest-free. Here are four other tips you can use to prevent rodents from damaging your A/C and causing other issues:

Four Easy Ways to Prevent Rodents from Damaging Your A/C

  1. Inspect the unit every month

    When you conduct a monthly inspection of your A/C, look for any signs of pests, such as:

    • Chewed wires
    • Foul smells
    • Squeaking noises
    • Droppings, urine, and dander
    • Reduction or loss of cooling efficiency

    If you detect rodents may be present, then contact a professional to remove them from the premises and repair any damage they may have caused.

  2. Keep the area clean

    You can avoid an infestation by regularly trimming any grass, weeds, or branches and removing moisture or puddles that may be around your air conditioner. Technically, your unit should sit above ground level and at least two feet away from any vegetation that would provide pests an excellent hiding spot or eventually get caught in the A/C.

  3. Seal all points of entry

    Gaps, cracks, and holes in your system are an invitation for these unwanted guests. To prevent them from entering, consider contacting a professional to clean and seal your ducts. Also, you can install mesh screens on the vents. That way, you will block unwanted access all year round but still keep air flowing when it’s time to use your air conditioner.

  4. Shut off condenser breaker

    Since rodents usually search for warm places to rest their heads, you can eliminate the heat inside your unit by turning off the condenser breaker during the winter months. No warmth, no vermin.

 

If you follow these tips and make a habit of upkeeping your air conditioner, you should see no signs of rodents or other pests near or inside your unit. For further help with protecting your A/C, or if you discover any damage, you can contact us, and we’ll be glad to assist you.