How to Squirrel Proof an Air Conditioner 
There are a few different ways to squirrel-proof an air conditioner, but the most effective method is to make the area inaccessible to the squirrel. For example, you can install Mesh fencing or Ultrasonic repellents.
Snakes and birds will also stay away from this area, so you can be sure that the squirrel will not be able to enter it. Nevertheless, if the squirrels have already taken up residence in the air conditioner, you need to take further measures to protect it.
Table of Contents
Mesh fencing
There are several options to squirrel-proof an air conditioning unit. One option involves placing bird netting across the window ledge and securing it with a board or a piece of cardboard. This type of fencing is flimsy, so birds cannot grasp it and will most likely fall out. Another option is hanging CDs on a thin wire. Silver tape and fake owls near the unit can also be used as deterrents.
Ultrasonic repellents
There are various methods to repel squirrels, such as using steel wool or coyote urine, but ultrasonic pest repellers are often considered one of the best solutions. These devices produce high-frequency noises that confuse and irritate squirrels and other rodents. However, ultrasonic pest repellers have several disadvantages that you should be aware of before purchasing one.
Bird deterrents
If you’d like to prevent pigeons from nesting around your air conditioning unit, you can use fake models, reflectors, and even a special gel. These products make birds uncomfortable for them. Not only do they prevent them from nesting in the AC unit, but they also prevent them from carrying diseases. Not only that, they also prevent fire hazards if there’s a nearby fire.
Snake deterrents
There are some simple ways to protect your air conditioning system from snakes. Keeping your air conditioner away from the entrance of the home, placing bird feeders in the corners, and keeping garbage and compost at the back of the home are great ways to keep snakes out. Also, it is important to move long-term storage items on a regular basis. One example of a long-term storage item is a fake Christmas tree. Many people ignore these trees until Christmastime rolls around. Once they’re put away, snakes are often discovered.
Bird feeders
You may have wondered how to squirrel proof an air conditioner with a bird feeder, and here are some tips for doing just that. The gray squirrel does not hibernate in the winter, so it is available all year round to attack your bird feeders. This is because they horde food in their small caches throughout their territory, where they can be recalled later. One gray squirrel has been recorded to have as many as 1,000 different hiding places.
Owl statues
You can use owl statues to squirrel proof an air conditioner by placing them in areas where you expect a lot of squirrel activity. It is a good idea to place them near or behind a pumpkin for example. The statues can also be placed along fences or railings in your yard. You can purchase owl statues that are shaped like a dog, fox, or an owl.
Owl statues on a patio
If you’ve been struggling with squirrels in your home, placing an owl statue on your patio is the perfect solution. Squirrels often get into air conditioners because they think they’re prey, but they’ll quickly figure out that a statue is no threat. You can also try spraying your air conditioner with coyote or fox urine to keep them away. Neither method is particularly effective, but both methods will keep your air conditioner squirrel-proof.
What are some ways to squirrel proof an air conditioner?
Answer: 1.
Trimming trees and shrubs near the AC unit.
2.
Covering the unit with a wire mesh screen.
3.
Installing a squirrel guard.
4.
spraying the unit with a squirrel repellent.
Why do squirrels like to chew on air conditioners?
Answer: The insulation on the wires tastes good to them.
How can squirrels cause damage to an air conditioner?
Answer: By chewing on the wires they can cause a short circuit which can lead to a fire.
What should you do if you see a squirrel chewing on your air conditioner?
Answer: Call an AC repair technician to come and fix the unit.
What is the best way to prevent squirrels from chewing on your air conditioner in the first place?
Answer: By installing a wire mesh screen or a squirrel guard.
Do squirrel repellents work?
Answer: Some people swear by them while others say they don’t work.
How often should you check your air conditioner for squirrel damage?
Answer: At least once a year and more often if you live in an area with a high population of squirrels.
What are the consequences of having a squirrel-damaged air conditioner?
Answer: A short circuit can cause a fire.
How much does it cost to repair squirrel damage to an air conditioner?
Answer: It depends on the extent of the damage.
Is it worth it to squirrel proof your air conditioner?
Answer: Yes it can save you money in the long run by preventing damage to the unit.
What are some other benefits of squirrel proofing your air conditioner?
Answer: It can also prevent squirrels from getting into your home through the unit and reduce the noise squirrels make as they try to get to the unit.
Are there any downside to squirrel proofing your air conditioner?
Answer: If not done properly it can block air flow to the unit and reduce its efficiency.
How can I tell if my air conditioner is not getting enough air flow?
Answer: Check the temperature of the air coming out of the unit.
If it’s not as cool as it should be the air flow is likely being restricted.
How do I know if my air conditioner is being damaged by squirrels?
Answer: Check for chewing damage on the wires and look for signs of a short circuit (burned wires sparks or smoke).
What should I do if I find damage to my air conditioner?
Answer: Call an AC repair technician to come and fix the unit.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.
