Having an air conditioner clogged or damaged by bird droppings can be a frustrating experience. Not only can it lead to poor cooling performance and higher energy bills, but it can also create an unhygienic environment. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to prevent bird poop from affecting your AC unit.
Why is bird poop harmful to air conditioners?
Bird droppings contain acids and bacteria that can eat away at the coils, fins, and other components of an AC system. As bird poop builds up, it can:
- Block airflow through the condenser coils, reducing efficiency
- Corrode and pit metal surfaces
- Promote mold growth inside the AC system
- Cause foul odors to spread through vents into the home
Left unchecked, damage from bird droppings can lead to complete AC failure, costing thousands in repairs or replacement. It’s important to take preventative measures.
Tips to deter birds from perching on your AC unit
Use scare deterrents
Scarecrows, decoy predators, and noise/movement devices can help deter birds from comfortably perching on your AC unit. Some options to try include:
- Scarecrow sprinkler – Attaches to garden hose and sporadically sprays water where birds are landing
- Fake owls or hawks – Lifelike predator decoys that frighten birds away
- Reflective tape – Shiny surface distracts and repels birds
- Sonic bird repellers – Emits high frequency sounds only birds can hear
Be sure to move decoys every few days so birds don’t catch on that they’re fake. Combining multiple deterrents together works best.
Block perching spots
Birds are opportunistic and will perch wherever it’s convenient. Limit their options by:
- Installing hardware cloth or chicken wire over flat surfaces
- Using foam covers or flexible vinyl spikes on railings and ledges
- Applying non-corrosive gel repellents on spots where birds frequently land
Make the AC unit an inconvenient and uncomfortable place for birds to land on.
Manage nests carefully
It’s illegal to remove or destroy active bird nests, as they and their eggs are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. However, you can legally:
- Remove old, abandoned nests after the breeding season ends
- Trim back branches and vegetation around the AC to eliminate nesting spots
- Install netting or wire mesh before nests are built
This removes materials birds could use for nesting while keeping their current homes intact.
How to clean bird droppings off an AC unit
If birds have already dirtied your AC system, here’s how to clean it:
1. Suit up for safety
Bird droppings contain harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. When cleaning, wear:
- Protective goggles
- Face mask
- Rubber gloves
- Long sleeves and pants
This prevents you from ingesting or spreading germs as you work.
2. Remove loose droppings
Use a plastic scraper or putty knife to gently dislodge caked-on poop. Avoid wire brushes or abrasive tools that could damage the coils. Bag all debris to throw away.
3. Sanitize the area
Mix a sanitizing spray of:
- 1 part white vinegar
- 1 part water
- 1 tsp baking soda
- Dash of mild detergent (optional)
Spray the solution onto soiled areas and let sit 5-10 minutes before rinsing. The vinegar neutralizes odor and bacteria.
4. Disinfect with bleach solution
Wipe down the AC unit with a bleach-and-water solution using this ratio:
Bleach | Water |
---|---|
1 cup | 1 gallon |
Let the bleach sit 3-5 minutes before rinsing. This kills any lingering bacteria.
5. Flush with hose
Use a garden hose on a low setting to thoroughly rinse away all sanitizing solutions. This prevents corrosion from cleaners.
6. Repeat as needed
Check areas above and below the coils for any remaining poop. Repeat cleaning steps until all visible droppings are gone.
When to call an HVAC professional
While minor spot cleaning can resolve light bird mess, heavy droppings or damage may require professional service. Contact an HVAC pro if:
- Poop has caused extensive corrosion or part damage
- Coils are severely clogged and can’t be flushed clean
- Sanitizing doesn’t eliminate foul odors coming from vents
- The AC system has uneven cooling, freezing, or other performance issues
A technician has specialized tools and chemicals to thoroughly clean and disinfect an affected AC unit. They can assess if repairs or part replacements are needed as well.
Conclusion
Preventing bird droppings on your AC equipment is critical to avoiding damage and health hazards. Discourage perching, block nesting areas, and quickly clean any messes that occur. When in doubt, call in an HVAC pro to properly service a soiled system. Taking these proactive steps will help ensure your air conditioner keeps running cleanly and efficiently for years.