How to Prevent Bugs from Coming Through the Air Conditioner

When it heats up in Southern California, humans aren’t the only ones seeking refuge from the heat. Bugs are also looking to keep cool. Many times, this won’t be a problem, but we get questions from customers about how to prevent bugs from coming through the air conditioner.

Here are our favorite ways to stop bugs from getting into your cool, cozy home.

Can Bugs Get into my HVAC System?

Unfortunately, the answer to this question is a resounding yes. It is very easy for insects, and other creatures, to find their way into your HVAC system and then your home.

Most HVAC systems offer a nice home for critters. Oftentimes there’s protection in the condenser’s grill. There’s almost always a fresh water supply from the condensation, and the whirring of the machine can be a toasty place to stay warm at night.

Another reason bugs like your HVAC system? It can grant total access to your home. They get in through ductwork, return vents, and small holes in the walls.

The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to keep bugs from coming in through the air conditioner.

What Kind of Bugs Get In?

Bugs seek out the same basic shelter we do. They are attracted to the lights inside your home, cool temperature, and availability of food. Your air conditioner can offer easy access to the inside of your home.

The bugs most commonly found in your AC system are flies, cockroaches, mosquitoes, ants, and spiders. I don’t know about you, but we sure don’t want these critters running around inside our home.

Fill in the Holes

Go outside and look at the area around your condenser. Are there any cracks or holes? Simply fill them up with caulk or concrete.

Though the holes may be small, they’re a great way for bugs to come through the air conditioner and int your home. You can purchase caulk and concrete at your local Ace Hardware, Home Depot, or Lowes.

Keep up With the Landscaping

Landscaping matters, especially when it comes to your condenser. There are basic rules all homeowners should follow when it comes to AC and foliage.

First, any plants, trees, or fences should be 2-3 feet away from the condenser. Just like most other things in this world, it needs room to breathe. Make sure any tree branches are not too low. Also, clean any debris from around the condenser. Leaf piles are a great starter home for bugs.

Second, move anything that could attract bugs away from your condenser. This includes wood piles, trash cans, and grass clippings.

By clearing away any gathering places for pests, you’re minimizing the risk of bugs coming in through the air conditioner.

Consider a Rock Garden

If cleaning up shrubbery seems like a total buzzkill, why not put in a rock garden?

These stone gardens are gaining popularity because they’re easy to maintain and drought resistant. Also, they will deter bugs from making their nests around your condenser.

A rock garden can be anything from aesthetically pleasing gravel to bricks, or even large river rocks. Also, tall plants can potentially block airflow and clog your condenser’s coil. A rock garden would entirely alleviate this problem.

Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Over the summer dust, leaves, and other debris can easily buildup in your home’s gutters and downspouts. This buildup is an incredibly inviting home for pests and critters.

Routinely cleaning your gutters and downspouts is not only a good thing to do, but it also keeps away bugs.

Stop Water Leaks

Cockroaches are always looking for water. A damp place could provide a wonderful home for a family of roaches. That’s why you’ll want to inspect for any water leaks and patch them up as soon as possible.

Check your hose spigots and make sure they close nice and tight. If you notice any water leaking from your condenser it’s more than a beacon for roach families, it could be an indicator that something is wrong with your AC

Schedule an AC tune-up

Want to prevent bugs from coming through the air conditioner? Schedule an appointment with the HVAC experts at Service Champions. Our techs will perform an AC tune-up and professional cleaning to ensure there are no critters in or around your system.

Call the number at the top of the screen or click here to request an appointment online. We serve parts of Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange, and San Bernardino counties.