At Max Sr & Paul Schoenwalder Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we’ve seen it all, especially when it comes to animals creating unexpected problems in your home’s heating and cooling system. If you’re searching for expert HVAC services in Union, we’re here to help you get ahead of the damage critters can cause before your comfort—and your wallet—take a hit.
Let’s break down how wildlife, pets, and pests can wreak havoc on your HVAC system and what you can do to stop them.
1. Rodents and Wiring Don’t Mix
Mice, squirrels, and even rats love to chew—especially on wires. Your HVAC system has plenty of them. Once they sneak into your attic, crawl space, or outdoor condenser unit, they often go to town chewing on insulation, control wires, and electrical connections. The result? System failures, expensive repairs, and even fire hazards in extreme cases.
2. Nesting in the Wrong Places
Birds and squirrels often look for warm, safe places to build their nests, and your HVAC equipment offers prime real estate. Outdoor condenser units, ductwork openings, and even chimneys can become cozy homes for nests, feathers, twigs, and other debris. Not only does this reduce efficiency and airflow, but it can also clog your system and lead to overheating or damage. Nests can also block safety switches and sensors, creating further issues that go undetected until a complete breakdown occurs.
3. Insects and Airflow Problems
You might not think much of ants or bees near your outdoor unit, but you should. Insects can build colonies inside condenser units, block airflow, and even short out electrical components. Some bees even target HVAC system insulation for nest material. Once airflow is restricted, your system works harder, raising your energy bill and wearing down components prematurely.
4. Pet Hair and Indoor Air Quality
Indoor pets can also be part of the HVAC chaos. Excessive shedding from cats and dogs clogs air filters faster than usual, reducing system performance and affecting your air quality. Dander and fur can work their way into ducts and vents, irritating allergies and making your system work overtime to maintain comfort.
5. Raccoons, Possums, and Larger Critters
Bigger animals like raccoons and possums may not be daily visitors, but they can do major damage if they get into your ductwork or crawlspaces. Once inside, they may rip insulation, break duct joints, or cause contamination that can lead to foul odors and unsafe air.
Preventative Steps You Can Take
We recommend regular HVAC maintenance to spot any signs of animal intrusion early. This includes checking for droppings, strange odors, unusual noises, or reduced airflow. Sealing entry points, protecting outdoor units with proper covers, and replacing filters often can also reduce risk.
At Max Sr & Paul Schoenwalder, we don’t just fix problems—we help you prevent them. If you’ve noticed odd smells, rising energy bills, or unexplained system failures, animals could be the hidden culprit.
Established in 1912, Max Sr & Paul Schoenwalder Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is your trusted resource for reliable HVAC repair in Mountainside. Call us today!