How to prevent bugs in your AC air ducts

How to prevent bugs in your AC air ducts

AC ducts are a common breeding ground and favored nesting area for bugs and other pests. The dark, cool, out of sight spaces of your ductwork make for a stealthy retreat for unwanted insects. Left unchecked, these insects could further infest your home or business, instigate the growth of bacteria and other pathogens, and dramatically decrease the air quality of your home as passing air through the ductwork picks up these pathogens and allergens along the way.

Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to prevent bugs from nesting in your ductwork in the first place.

1. Inspect and seal up any cracks you find along your ductwork. Over time seals can shrink, leaving gaps. Similarly, old sealant can simply dry out and leave nooks where insects can get in.
2. Ensure tight-fitting connections along your ducts. Connections are a key weak point in all ductwork, and over time they can become loose.
3. Keep your AC system and ductwork clean with an annual inspection and professional cleaning. Dirty ductwork and debris is a strong attractant of pests.
4. Put screens over vents to prevent large insects from entering.