How to Prevent Bugs Coming Through Air Conditioner Vents

Bugs are just plain unpleasant. There’s no better way to describe them. And when temperatures start to get up to the 80s and 90s, we can expect them to start looking for shelter. Unfortunately, the creepy crawlers found in Sacramento like to take refuge in your AC condenser and even your home. Here are some of our favorite ways to prevent bugs coming through air conditioner vents.

Can Bugs Get Into My HVAC System?

It’s an annoying and sad truth, but bugs and other critters can find their way into your HVAC system, and by proxy, your home. However, there are some easy things you can do to prevent bugs from coming through your air conditioner vents.

An HVAC system is an appealing home for insects and critters. Your outdoor consider provides protection and water in the form of condensation. For insects like roaches, this is all they need to make a proper home.

There’s also the added benefit for bugs like ants, cockroaches, and spiders to really like your HVAC system. The vents and ductwork provide a perfect access point to your home.

Your home is the perfect place for these crawlers. There’s a ton of food, great shelter, lots of water, and a nice climate controlled environment.

What Kind of Bugs Can Get Through My Air Vents?

 

I just saw a spider in my house 😫 why summer gotta come with the bugs?

— Bubbz 🌻 (@bohobubbles) April 22, 2021

 

One of the reasons we like winter is because the bugs go into hiding, summer is when they’re able to roam free. Here in Sacramento, it’s common to see  an influx of ants, roaches, mosquitoes, and spiders.

As we mentioned above, these bugs want light, shelter, and the comforts your home provides. While they can create their own space, your home is just the easier option. And air vents provide easy entry.

However, there are small things you can do to keep bugs from coming through air conditioner vents.

Check for and Fill in Holes

As the weather starts to heat up, take a moment to conduct a small visual inspection around the foundation of your home. Look closely for small cracks and holes. Even the smallest crack is large enough for an ant family to make it through.

Fortunately, there is an incredibly easy fix for this. Make a quick trip to your local hardware store, Lowe’s, or Home Depot. They should have small caulking kits that will make it easy to patch up and fissures in your foundation.

This is a simple, yet effective way to keep bugs from getting into your home.

Don’t Ignore Your Landscaping

Unkept grass and landscaping is a magnet to bugs, critters, and other things you don’t want in your home. This is one of the many reasons it’s good to keep your yard neat.

There are a few important things to keep in mind when landscaping and cleaning around your condenser.

Make sure all plants, shrubbery, and tree branches are 2-3 feet away from your condenser. Not only does this ensure no debris makes it into your condenser, but it also allows your condenser to breathe.

Without proper airflow, your condenser may be forced to work harder which puts needless wear and tear on the system. Also, piles of leaves and other organic debris make great homes for bugs.

The next thing you should do is move anything away from your condenser that could attract bugs. This includes trash cans, piles of wood, and grass clippings.

Think About a Rock Garden

There’s a big reason rock gardens are gaining popularity amongst Sacramento homeowners. One is that they’re drought resistant and the second is that they don’t attract as many bugs.

These gardens are made from decorative gravel, river rocks, stones, and drought resistant plants like succulents. They are low maintenance and have great curb appeal.

Maintain Your Gutters and Downspouts

Roof gutters and downspouts attract a lot of leaves and debris, and with that, a lot of bugs and critters. The like to make a home in the leaves and dirt that can collect up there.

At Bell Brothers, we recommend checking your gutters and downspouts every few months. All you need is a ladder to get up there and something to scoop out the debris with. This simple act can greatly decrease the likelihood of bugs coming through your air conditioner vents.

Stop Water Leaks Whenever Possible

A roach’s favorite home is a place that’s cool and somewhat wet. Sounds like your condenser, right? Because of the condensation from the drip line and drain pan, roaches and other critters like to nest in this space.

It’s important to conduct a visual inspection around your condenser every so often. If you see any wet spots or leaking water, it could indicate bug activity. Loose water could also be a sign of problems with your air filter or refrigerant line.

Book the Best AC Tune-Up in Sacramento

Get the bugs before they get you! Schedule an AC tune-up with the experts at Bell Brothers as soon as possible. Our techs make sure to conduct a thorough tune-up and professional cleaning while at your home. They also do Good Deeds For Free.

Bell Brothers is the trusted choice for our Sacramento, Stockton, Vacaville, and East Bay communities. Dial the number at the top of the screen or click here to request an appointment online.