Birds have become a huge problem for Tybirds HVAC equipment that is located on roofs (RTUs). This is because they are often roosting and nesting on or around the equipment. This creates problems for both the equipment and building occupants.
Bird debris and fecal matter degrades airflow through the RTU and reduces efficiency. It also clogs the filters, which affects static pressure and indoor air quality.
Insulation Damage
Bird droppings can damage HVAC insulation, and the corrosive acids in their feces can eat holes in RTU cabinets. The discarded feathers clog filters and evaporator coils, which can cause your air conditioner to overheat and drop its cooling efficiency. Insulation damaged by birds is often pecked to the point of exposing fiberglass, which affects efficiency and building occupants’ health. Additionally, birds sometimes snag and tear the black tubing insulation known as ArmaFlex from outside a RTU and then release it into the cooling system, resulting in further damage. Painting the insulation voids its 25/50 Fire Hazard Classification rating from Underwriters Laboratories, making it more likely to melt or catch fire. It can also become tangled in A/C compressor blades, creating an additional safety hazard for the system and its occupants.
Health Issues
Bird feces and debris are a significant health risk to building occupants. These materials provide a rich environment for bacterial and fungal growth. They are easily distributed throughout a building by an HVAC system and can cause respiratory, skin, and digestive issues in people who come into contact with them. These diseases can be fatal in some cases. They are most dangerous for children, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems. Cleaning the air ducts and other parts of an HVAC unit with a disinfectant after every bird infestation will eliminate bacteria and fungal growth and prevent future problems. Our IAQ testing, EDLab, and HVAC Hygiene assessments can help you find the source of contamination and determine how severe it is. We can also help you clean the affected areas to prevent further infestations.
Fire Risk
In overcrowded cities with little space for trees, birds often nest in HVAC vents and other rooftop structures. This can clog filters, evaporator coils and drain pans affecting the function of equipment. It can also deteriorate insulation and reduce energy efficiency. But the most serious problem is fire risk. Because birds’ dander and feathers are dry, they pose a fire hazard. When a bird’s nest burns, it can spread to other parts of the building or even the entire structure, creating extensive and expensive damage.
Smoke and fire are the most common causes of loss to HVAC systems. However, when they occur, most units can be restored to their pre-loss condition with thorough cleaning.
If you have smoke or fire damage to your unit, contact the team at HVACi for fast and accurate cause of loss and repair or replacement determinations. We use comprehensive testing to help adjusters make informed decisions about the extent of repairs needed and cost of replacement.