Bugs usually come in your air conditioner for two main reasons. One primary reason is shelter, and secondly, they come looking for food. They always use the conditioner lines to get in your air conditioning unit.
There are some proven techniques that you might apply to prevent bugs from coming through your AC unit.
HVAC Steps to Keep Bugs Out—Without Chemicals
Small gaps around your cooling equipment are common pest entry points. Tighten up the HVAC envelope and you’ll cut down on intrusions while improving comfort and efficiency.
- Seal wall penetrations: Inspect where the refrigerant line set, electrical whip, and condensate line pass through the wall. Replace brittle grommets and seal gaps with exterior-grade caulk.
- Maintain panels & drains: Loose service panels and clogged condensate lines create airflow leaks that invite pests. Regular AC maintenance keeps everything tight and draining properly.
- Screen smart: Add fine-mesh screens to foundation vents and condensate terminations where appropriate to deter insects while preserving airflow.
- Close odd openings: Missing chase covers or custom transitions can leave gaps—our in-house sheet metal fabrication team can build snug, durable solutions.
- Consider a window-unit alternative: Window units can leave sash gaps; a sealed ductless mini-split cools efficiently without the cracks.
These HVAC-focused fixes complement the steps already on this page and help keep pests where they belong—outside.
Caulk Out Large Gaps
An effective method of keeping bugs away from your air conditioning unit is by using caulk. There are various types of caulks available in the market. Do research before and seek the best caulk for your needs. Caulk usually depends on your requirements, such as removable and malleable caulk.
Use Duct Tape
Check for any visible cracks around your window and the AC unit, and use duct tape to seal them. Duct tape is usually an ideal solution for an instant seal. Additionally, duct tape is beneficial and suitable for horizontal panels. However, it is essential to note that the duct seal is not a solution to all cracks. Be sure to seal large cracks using other methods.
Use a Cardboard
Using cardboard is a cheap and straightforward way of preventing the migration of bugs into your home through the air conditioner. Use precise measurements, and cut the cardboard to help you cover any AC hole. Bugs usually use even the most negligible entries to get into your home; hence be sure to cover every crack and edge around your window. Although this method might not look presentable, it works best in preventing bugs from coming through the air conditioner.
Use Screening
Screening your air conditioning system is another way to avoid bugs from coming through the system. It is a recommended measure for window air conditioners. Window screening helps you prevent bugs and other pests from getting into your home. With proper screening, this method works very well.
Are you having trouble with bugs getting into your home through your air conditioning unit? If the answer is yes, be sure to contact Advanced Comfort Solutions. We have the best technicians to help you fix all issues to do with AC unit repairs, installation, and replacements. We also provide heating, cooling, indoor air quality and sheet metal fabrication services in Cheyenne. For more details, call us today.
