Why Are Birds Dangerous for HVAC System?

Overpopulated cities leave no or very little space for birds to nest. In a lack of trees, they tend to nest on tops of buildings and usually on rooftop HVAC units or in HVAC vents. They do so because HVAC units are dry and often warm and also safe for nesting. But what does that mean for the HVAC system and peoples health?

Birds dander and feces build up in vents tend to clog filters, evaporator coils and drain pans which can affect airflow, and drop in the cooling power. Because twigs from the nests and bird debris are dry, they are highly flammable, thus present a huge fire hazard. Feathers often get caught in blades which can stop A/C compressor from starting, making your HVAC system inefficient. Besides, there is an issue of energy loss caused by bird pecking the insulation from pipes. All of these complications affect HVAC efficiency and also reflect on your energy bill.

The other side of this story is more alarming because it concerns your health. It is very important to remove bird droppings and feathers from your HVAC system because they harbor several human pathogens such as Histoplasma and Salmonella. The illnesses related to birds cause severe respiratory, digestive, and skin problems. They can also trigger allergies. Older people, children, and ones with the week immune system are especially affected.

What you can do to prevent birds from building nests around your air conditioning unit is:

-install a wire cage around the A/C unit
–install a bird cage over exhaust vent
-install a netting over a duct work
-call your local air duct cleaning company and have your ducts cleaned