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Will Water Around My HVAC Unit Cause Bug Problems?


Summertime is here, and that means it’s time for afternoons outside with family and friends! After a barbecue or pool party, there’s nothing better than getting out of the heat and coming back to a cool home. When your air conditioning unit is working so hard to keep your house cool, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to see condensation around their unit. This leads to the common question: “Will water around my AC unit attract bugs?”

There are many reasons why your unit might have condensation or water around it, and each situation is unique. If you have questions about whether or not the amount of water around your unit is normal, call your local HVAC company today.

What Bugs Are Attracted to Water?

Just like other animals, insects need to stay cool in the heat. Some are more likely to be found around your HVAC unit than others, like roaches, spiders, and ants. You might also find that other animals enjoy the cool, dark spaces of your HVAC system, including mice and snakes.

Standing water is also a great breeding ground for mosquitoes, and these pests are some of the worst uninvited guests you’ll ever have at a backyard barbecue. When it comes to keeping your yard pest-free and enjoyable for everyone, it pays to make sure there is no standing water or consistent puddling around your air conditioning unit. Still having pest problems? Contact a local pest control company in Raleigh to take care of any unwelcome bugs that may be lingering around your home or business.

What Causes Water Around My HVAC Unit?

Two of the most common reasons you’ll find water around your HVAC unit are the outdoor temperature and the temperature you have set on the thermostat. Moisture around the unit can actually be a sign that it’s working properly! Humidity and large changes in the refrigerant temperature can cause condensation, which will leave a small puddle or wet spot on the HVAC slab outside.

You can also check the drain line for condensation; humidity inside the home will condense on the evaporator coils of your unit and drip down into a drain pan that will run outside through the drain line.

How Much Water Is Too Much?

If the amount of water around your unit is large enough that it doesn’t evaporate quickly, you could have a blocked drain line, low air flow, or a problem with the compressor. A consistent leak throughout the day or a leak that forms a puddle lasting throughout the day are signs that it’s time to call a licensed HVAC technician who will be able to identify the problem and offer a solution.

When Should I Call an HVAC Technician?

If the amount of water around your unit is unable to evaporate quickly on a hot day, it’s time to call an expert. Of course, you should also call a technician if your home isn’t cooling properly or if the unit is leaking inside the home.

Enjoy everything that summer has to offer with a well-operating HVAC system, and let the team at Raleigh Heating and Air make that happen! Contact us today for more information.

Raleigh Heating & Air