How Rodents Can Cause Furnace Damage (and What to Do)

It might be a surprise, but rodents can wreak havoc on your furnace and HVAC system. From chewing through wires to nesting inside ductwork, these tiny invaders can cause extensive damage that leads to costly repairs. In this blog, we’ll explore how rodents can harm your furnace and HVAC system and provide you with tips on how to prevent and address these issues effectively.

1. Rodents and Your Furnace Wiring

Chewing Through Wires Can Lead to Electrical Failures:

One of the most common ways rodents damage a furnace is by chewing on its wiring. Rodents, especially rats and squirrels, have a natural instinct to gnaw on materials to keep their teeth from growing too long. Unfortunately, wires and cables in your furnace or HVAC system are no match for their sharp teeth.

What This Might Mean:

1. Short circuits and electrical failures: Damaged wires can cause short circuits or electrical failures, which may stop your furnace from working entirely.
2. Fire hazards: In some cases, chewed wires can spark, creating a fire hazard that can be dangerous for your home and family.

What to Do:

1. Inspect your furnace wiring: If you suspect rodent damage, inspect the furnace wiring for visible chew marks or frayed cables. If you find any damage, have a professional repair or replace the wires immediately.
2. Call an electrician or HVAC technician: If you’re unsure about how to handle electrical issues, it’s always best to call in a licensed professional to ensure the wiring is safe and secure.

2. Rodents in Your Ductwork

Nesting in Ducts Can Block Airflow and Spread Disease:

Rodents often make their homes in ducts because they offer a quiet, sheltered space that is hidden from predators. When rodents nest in your ductwork, they can block air passageways and compromise your heating or cooling efficiency. Additionally, as rodents scurry through the ducts, they can spread bacteria, droppings, and even diseases.

What This Might Mean:

1. Clogged or blocked ducts: Rodent nests and debris can obstruct airflow, leading to poor heating performance, increased energy consumption, and potential breakdowns.
2. Health risks: Rodent droppings and urine in your ducts can cause poor indoor air quality, leading to respiratory issues and allergies for you and your family.

What to Do:

1. Inspect your ducts: If you suspect rodents in your ducts, contact an HVAC technician to inspect and clean your ductwork. They’ll also look for any signs of nests, droppings, or other damage.
2. Sanitize the ducts: Once rodents are removed, your HVAC technician may need to disinfect the ducts to remove any germs or bacteria left behind.

3. Rodents and Furnace Vents

Blockages and Damage to Furnace Vents:

In addition to nesting inside your ducts, rodents can also damage or block the venting system of your furnace. They may enter through small gaps in your home’s exterior or chewing through vents. Blockages caused by nests or debris can prevent your furnace from venting properly, causing dangerous issues like carbon monoxide buildup.

What This Might Mean:

1. Ventilation issues: If the vent is blocked, your furnace won’t be able to expel exhaust gases properly, leading to poor system performance or dangerous situations like carbon monoxide poisoning.
2. Heating system breakdowns: A blocked vent can cause your furnace to overheat and shut down, requiring costly repairs or replacements.

What to Do:

1. Check vent areas: Regularly inspect the areas around your furnace vents for any signs of rodent activity or blockage.
2. Seal gaps in venting: Ensure all exterior gaps or holes are sealed to prevent rodents from entering your home in the first place.

4. How to Prevent Rodents from Accessing Your Furnace

Rodent-Proofing Your Home and Furnace:

Prevention is always better than dealing with the damage later. By taking steps to rodent-proof your home and furnace, you can reduce the likelihood of infestation and keep your HVAC system safe.

What to Do:

1. Seal cracks and gaps: Inspect your home for any holes, cracks, or gaps where rodents can enter. Seal these areas to prevent rodents from making their way into your furnace or ductwork.
2. Install rodent-proof vents: Consider installing vent covers or mesh screens on your furnace vents to keep rodents out.
3. Maintain a clean environment: Remove food sources, seal trash cans tightly, and keep your garage and basement areas clean and free of clutter, as rodents are attracted to easily accessible food and nesting spots.
4. Trim trees and bushes: Rodents can climb trees and bushes to access your roof or vents. Keep tree branches and shrubs trimmed back to prevent rodents from entering your attic or furnace area.

5. How to Handle a Rodent Infestation

Getting Professional Help:

If you suspect or have discovered a rodent infestation, it’s important to take swift action. Dealing with a rodent problem requires more than just setting traps. You need to address both the infestation and any damage caused to your HVAC system.

What to Do:

1. Contact a pest control professional: A pest control expert will be able to identify the source of the infestation and safely remove the rodents.
2. Schedule a furnace inspection: After rodent removal, contact your HVAC technician to inspect your furnace, ducts, and vents for damage or contamination. If necessary, they can perform cleaning and repairs.
3. Consider regular maintenance: Regular maintenance checks can help you catch any potential rodent issues early, preventing damage to your HVAC system.

6. When to Call an HVAC Professional for Rodent Damage

Don’t Wait to Get Professional Help:

If you’ve noticed signs of rodent activity in or around your furnace, or if you’ve already experienced damage, it’s best to call in an HVAC professional as soon as possible. Rodent damage can cause long-term issues that affect the safety and efficiency of your heating system.

What to Do:

1. Schedule a furnace inspection: If you think rodents have damaged your furnace, an HVAC technician can perform a thorough inspection to identify any issues and recommend the necessary repairs.
2. Get duct cleaning and sanitization: If rodents have made their way into your ductwork, you may need professional cleaning and sanitization to ensure proper airflow and healthy indoor air quality.

Conclusion

Rodents may be small, but the damage they can cause to your furnace and HVAC system can be significant. From chewing through wires to nesting in ducts, these little creatures can create costly and dangerous problems for your home’s heating system. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to prevent infestations, you can protect your furnace and HVAC system from the dangers of rodents.

If you suspect rodent damage or need a professional inspection of your furnace and ductwork, contact D-N-D Services today. Our experienced technicians can help you address rodent damage, perform necessary repairs, and keep your heating system running smoothly.