How to Prevent Bugs from Coming Through Your Air Conditioner Vents

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Updated May 18, 2023

If you invest in the best air conditioners available, you need to ensure you keep them in working condition. This includes providing regular maintenance alongside solving problems, like how to prevent bugs from coming through your window air conditioner. To stop bugs from getting into your house through air conditioner vents, follow these steps: First, clean the vents regularly to remove dirt and webs. Put screens or filters on the vents to keep bugs out but let air in. Seal any holes around the vents with caulk or weatherstripping. Make sure doors and windows near the vents are closed tightly. You can also use smelly oils or sprays that bugs don’t like.

Today we’ll provide additional solutions to this particular issue so that you can enjoy your AC all season long.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • If there are any cracks or damage to your AC unit, you’ll likely run into the issue of bugs infiltrating your household. Regular maintenance solves this problem.
  • You can use duct tape and other types of sealants to fix leaks, cracks, and other types of damage that could be letting bugs into your home.
  • You can install specific screens over the air vents of your AC to prevent bugs from coming inside if that is an issue.

How to Keep Bugs Out of Your Window AC

It’s not uncommon to have a bug light out at all times during the summer months. This is a preventative measure to make sure there are no creepy crawlies lurking around the trash cans. In fact, we go to great lengths to keep these pesky pests from causing a nuisance. With a wide range of bug repellents, sprays, and traps, we take apprehension-free measures to keep the influx of ants or a family of roaches, and other pests away from your home. We have several listed below if you’re looking for a simple solution to this problem of bugs coming inside through your window AC. 

Because, unfortunately, a window AC can be perfect access for spiders, ants, mosquitos, and other bugs to the inside of your home.

Insider Tip

Clean your air conditioner’s return vents often to increase the indoor air quality of your home.

The summer heat can cause other issues, too. If you’re having trouble with your air conditioning unit blowing cold air, you might need to learn how to refill the Freon in your window air conditioner.

Use Rope Caulk

The chances are that bugs are getting in because of tiny gaps and holes. You can use a cheap rope caulk gun to seal up the areas on the outside of your air conditioner unit. This will help keep the bugs at bay. However, if you have an issue, such as a leaking AC, you might need to learn how to stop an air conditioner from leaking water before the caulk is effective.

Try Duct Tape

A bit of duct tape goes a long way in preventing a potential bug infestation. Window units can be prone to cracking along their ductwork. Try to spot any visible cracks, and then use your hand to feel for a leak by looking for bursts of cooler air. You can use duct tape and Aeroseal duct sealant if the leaks are particularly bad.

Avoid Improper Installation

You can’t expect cooler air to be produced if the unit is improperly installed in your window frame. Beyond that, bugs can quickly get in if you make this mistake. Ensure you avoid this, or you could leave gaps that allow bugs to infiltrate your home. Window units are prone to be installed incorrectly if you don’t follow their instructions closely. Speaking of improper installation, if you are going to use a portable AC but don’t have access to a window, be sure to read our page on how to vent a portable air conditioner without a window.

If you’re now wondering, “How to make my window AC colder in general?” we have a great article on the topic.

Warning

Mold can grow on your condenser unit, so ensure that you check it regularly for any irregular growth.

Put Screens on the Air Vents

There are screens specifically designed to help keep bugs out of window units. You can put them on the outdoor air vents to keep pests from getting inside. Simply install them on the vent cover, and you’ll be good to go. You should also check for odd growths while you have your air conditioner vents exposed. If you find anything suspicious, how to clean mold from air conditioner vents will help.

STAT: It is projected that the revenue of steam and air conditioning supply in Germany will amount to approximately 6,014.25 million U.S. Dollars by 2025. (source)

How to Prevent Bugs from Coming Through Your Window Air Conditioner FAQs

What is a portable air conditioner?

Portable units are air conditioners that are easily moved from place to place as necessary. They are convenient when you want to keep specific rooms as cool as possible.

What causes water leaks in an AC unit?

There are a few things that can cause these leaks, including:

  • Damaged drain pan
  • Dirty coils
  • Clogged lines

What types of caulk can I use on my AC unit?

All types of caulk should be safe to use, even if it’s relatively cheap caulk. Make sure that you look at the recommended use for the formula, however, and follow instructions closely.

What is the best long-term solution for bugs in my AC?

Giving your model a regular AC system tune-up and a good cleaning are the best ways to prevent this problem. This ensures that your unit works correctly and you can spot any damage.
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