How to Get Rid of Pests from HVAC Systems
The main reason pests find it an ideal space to infest is due to two factors. One being an easy access to food and water sources, and the other is environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature (especially for pest’s eggs or their offspring to thrive).
When we think of common house pests or the ones found in commercial properties, we usually do not consider the HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). Naturally, which property owner would expect pests in an air-conditioning, ventilation or inside a ducted heating system? And yet, the truth is, like many other hiding spots around the property, heating, cooling and ventilation systems make a very convenient location for a variety of pests to make their nest and start breeding.
Do keep in mind, pests that aren’t dealt with quickly can cause significant damage overtime. So, what kind of pests do we usually encounter in (or nearby) the heating and cooling units around Los Angeles CA properties?
Dust Mites in HVAC Systems
Although these pests can’t cause any major structural damage to the property, they are very much capable of contaminating the surroundings as well as the property. Since these pests multiply quickly, they can rapidly become a health problems. When untreated, dust mites can contaminate air causing allergies and also can cause serious allergies making it difficult to breathe.
Regular inspection, thorough cleaning and replacing filters can prevent and also eliminate infestation.
Rats and Mice
Think about it this way, ducted heating system is used during hot LA months, and at times, its not even turned on for at least 6 months. This makes it a perfect spot for rats and mice to take shelter and breed due to warm and hidden nature that pipes are located at. Rats and Mice can cause significant damage to HVAC systems.
On the opposite, AC units located near windows in commercial buildings, or units located where there are no humans walking about, makes the AC very appealing for rodents to take shelter to breed. Remember, rodents are intelligent pests usually active during the night, hence making them hard to spot in commercial and residential settings.
Unlike some other type of pests, rats and mice can chew through HVAC system’s components and wires. Usually evident when turned on, damages caused by rodents might become expensive to repair. Furthermore, rodents may die inside the unit causing bad smell and allergies as well as attract other pests and insects looking for easy meal. Here are types of rats found in LA and ways to exterminate them.
Snakes
Just like any other animal or pests, snakes also need to eat, in search of food, snakes may find their way slithering to your LA property chasing their prey or even to regulate their body temperature using your heating or air conditioning system. For example: a snake may be chasing a mouse or a rat which usually makes up snake’s diet.
Regardless of the reason, when you see snakes creeping around your Los Angeles California property, do not attempt to remove it yourself nor get near it, because these wild animals could be particularly dangerous when threatened. We encourage you to simply call Maximum Pest Control Services wildlife and snake removal experts.
We cover most areas around LA removing wildlife and also offer snake removal services including for rattlesnakes from Mission Hills, Woodland Hills, West Hills, North Hills, Granada Hills and other properties nearby Los Angeles.
How to Get Rid of Pests from HVAC System
There is always a possibility of pests infesting any heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units, best way to eliminate the problem is by focusing on prevention.
If there is already an infestation, best way to get rid of pests is by contacting your local Pest Control and Management Specialists.
When it comes to Integrated Pest Control Measures, your job for dealing with pests in HVAC Systems is to first ensure these places are less attractive to pests to nest.
- Conduct regular inspection looking for common visible signs of infestation (pest droppings, torn or chewed cables etc.).
- Seal Ductwork. Ducts and piping are sealed during installation of your air conditioner system, but the sealing may wear off over time. Even smallest gaps can allow pests to enter the property. Make sure to close the vents and seal off any cracks and openings caused over time.
- Do NOT Use Pesticides. If ventilation and air conditioning systems are sprayed using pesticides to eliminate pests, chemicals will circulate throughout the entire property which is never ideal way to deal with pest problems found in HVAC units. Instead, get in touch with one of our experts to learn more are safe natural pest treatment solutions you can confidently use.
- Regular cleaning of both inside and outside the units is necessary. You can use natural pest repellents to keep the pests at bay. Also, should you decide to use pest traps to catch the rats, mice, or other animals killing the pests inside the unit requires thorough planning first. Because the last thing you would want is to breathe in rotten air due to dead pest carcass.
As we’ve outlined brief insights for dealing with pest problems one may encounter through heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, the best way to deal with pest problem is by hiring professional pest control expert services. Maximum Pest Control Services offers proven to work and cost-effective residential and commercial pest control solutions for Los Angeles residents.
