How To Tell if You Have Animals in Your HVAC System

An animal in your HVAC ducts is something no Detroit homeowner wants to deal with. Yes, you read that right–animals in your heating and cooling system.  Unfortunately, I don’t mean animals like a cute litter of newborn kittens.  I mean things like rats, mice, cockroaches, and squirrels.  All of these critters can find their way into your home and cause a wide variety of problems that range from disease to allergies to ruining your furnace or air conditioner.

Let’s just say that though these creatures may live by “mi casa es su casa”…or more like, “su casa es mi casa,” we don’t want them there.  So, how can you tell if you have some unwanted house guests?

Top 3 Signs of Animals in Your HVAC System

1. The Pitter Patter of Little Feet

One of the first things you may notice, if you have animals in your HVAC system, is the sound of them moving and rustling around.  If you hear a pitter-patter of feet coming from your ceiling or walls while lying in bed at night, it’s best to do some investigating the next day.

2. Really Bad Smells

When animals are living in your ductwork, that means that are also relieving themselves in your ductwork.  Fecal droppings and urine both smell and that smell will be carried out throughout your ductwork and home thanks to your furnace or air conditioner.  Unfortunately, you may also notice an even worse odor if an animal dies in your home.

3. Suspicious Looking Holes

It does not take much for animals to make their way into your homes.  Even the smallest of holes located around your house can be entry points.

Wildlife experts at the Wildlife Company point out that “flexible ductwork,” is an area that rats and raccoons can do major damage to. “Rats will tear/gnaw their way through the walls of this ductwork while raccoons will pull and rip with teeth and paws more like a dog.”

If you notice holes or damage in ductwork or holes along your foundation, do some investigating.

What To Do If You Have An Animal in Your HVAC Ducts

Call a professional exterminator immediately if you suspect you have animals in your HVAC system.  Then, call an HVAC professional, like FLAME, to have your ducts professionally cleaned and sanitized.

Looking for more ways to keep your HVAC system working properly?  Contact us at FLAME Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical!