How to Keep Pests Out of Your Home’s HVAC System

How to Keep Pests Out of Your Home’s HVAC System | Inman-Murphy, Inc.

If you have been worried about pest infestations, you might think of termites and other wood-boring insects gnawing away at your walls and foundations, or roaches and ants crawling around your pantry. There are many places throughout a home that automatically come to mind when pests are of concern.

If you’re concerned about pests and want to learn more about how you can prevent an infestation, keep reading!

Can You Get Pests In Your HVAC System?

Yes! Unfortunately, your HVAC system is not safe from pests. Your HVAC system is one of the key components of your home—it keeps everyone comfortable, maintains humidity levels, ensures good air quality, and, unfortunately, it can also provide a cozy home for various pests.

First things first, if you have any problems with your HVAC system, always contact a local HVAC services company. If you already have a pest control problem in your heating and air system, contact us immediately to prevent the infestation from getting worse.

If you don’t have a pest problem but are concerned you may have one soon, follow these steps to prevent an infestation:

What are Some Common HVAC Pests to Watch Out for?

Several pests are most likely to find their way into your HVAC system, including:

Rodents (Commonly Mice and Rats)

Behavior: Rodents are notorious for seeking shelter in warm, hidden spaces, and HVAC systems offer an ideal habitat. They can enter through small openings in search of food, warmth, and nesting sites.

Impact: Rodents can chew through ductwork, insulation, and wiring, causing significant damage to your HVAC system. Their droppings and urine can also contaminate the system, leading to health concerns and foul odors. Additionally, they may carry diseases that can be transmitted through the air.

Prevention: To prevent rodent infestations:

  • Seal any openings in your home’s foundation, walls, and roof.
  • Regularly inspect your HVAC system for signs of rodent activity, such as chewed wires or nests, and address any issues promptly.

Insects (Ants, Roaches, and Others)

Behavior: Insects, such as ants, termites, and roaches, can infiltrate your HVAC system through tiny openings in search of food and shelter. Once inside, they can build nests, lay eggs, cause blockages, or even destruction!

Impact: Insect infestations can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system by clogging filters and air ducts. Additionally, they can introduce allergens and contaminants into the air, impacting indoor air quality.

Prevention: To prevent an insect infestation:

  • Install mesh screens over exterior air vents to prevent insect entry.
  • Regularly clean your HVAC system to remove debris and any insect nests.
  • Keep your home clean and free of food crumbs, as this can attract pests.

Spiders

Behavior: Spiders often spin webs in and around HVAC equipment due to the warmth generated by the system. These webs can accumulate over time and obstruct airflow.

Impact: While not as harmful as rodents or certain insects, spider webs can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. They may also lead to increased maintenance needs.

Prevention: You can prevent spiders from entering your HVAC system by:

  • Regularly inspect and clean your HVAC system to remove spider webs and their occupants.
  • Ensure that outdoor components are clear of debris that spiders may use as a nesting site.

Bees and Wasps

Behavior: Bees and wasps may build nests in and around HVAC units, especially during warmer months. These nests can obstruct airflow and pose safety risks.

Impact: Stinging insects like bees and wasps can be dangerous if disturbed. Their nests near HVAC units can lead to painful encounters. Additionally, nests can accumulate debris, reducing the efficiency of your system.

Prevention: To prevent bees & wasps:

How to Prevent Pests In Your HVAC System

Now that you know which pests to watch out for, here’s how to prevent them from invading your HVAC system:

Use Screens on Air Vents

Exterior air vents are prime entry points for insects. Install mesh screens, preferably made of aluminum wire, to cover these vents and keep pests out.

Maintain Cleanliness

Bugs and rodents can compromise your HVAC system’s air quality. Regular maintenance is crucial. Ensure your HVAC system is serviced periodically to keep it clean and identify any new infestations. Take these additional steps:

  • Eliminate standing water around your outside unit.
  • Clear away debris that accumulates in the vanes.
  • Change filters regularly to maintain clean air circulation.

Seal Ducts

Probably the easiest entry point for insects is through your ductwork. Loose seals and cracks give bugs the opportunity they need to enter and infest your HVAC system.

Sealing your ducts is relatively easy and affordable. You’ll need to purchase foil tape for smaller cracks, and sealant for large holes. While there are guides for maintaining your ductwork, if you don’t feel comfortable taking this on, or your ductwork isn’t easily accessible don’t hesitate to contact an HVAC professional to have ducts cleaned and sealed.

Schedule Your HVAC Pest Control Inspection Today

The most effective way to keep pests out of your heating and air system (and your entire home) is to schedule regular pest control treatments and maintenance. Consider quarterly treatments to address seasonal pests and monthly treatments if you have a history of serious infestations.

Protecting your HVAC system from pests is not only essential for its efficiency but also for the health and comfort of your home. By taking these preventive measures, you can ensure your HVAC system remains pest-free* and continues to provide you with the comfort you rely on.

Call Inman-Murphy, Inc. today for a free consultation! 

Spider Prevention: When Are They Most Active?

Spider crawling across floor | Inman-Murphy | Spider Control in TN

Spiders are one of the most prolific fear inducing pests the residents of mid-South TN deal with year-round. Depending on the species, they can be found in window sills, high up in corners, down low in cabinets, in basements, attics, crawl spaces, and spaces left undisturbed for long periods of time.  

Traditionally spiders are thought to be most active in homes in late summer, but this is only true for a few species like the Giant House Spider and the Orb Weaver. Truthfully, spiders are active throughout every season, with each season presenting its own challenges for homeowners. Most species are non-aggressive, harmless to humans, nocturnal, and enter homes in search of their prey. A few species native to mid-South TN are potentially dangerous, making spider pest control an important part of home maintenance.  

Summer  

Summer is not when most spiders are active, but they will find their way into the milder temperatures of your home in search of their food sources as summer brings with it higher pest activity. In summer you are more likely to encounter large balls of Daddy Longlegs along the shady sides of buildings, and this is also when Black Widows are busy laying their eggs. Keep doors closed and repair any damaged screens, or gaps in door frames to ward off summertime invasion.  

Fall  

Surprising to many, fall is the true season of highest spider activity. Springtime eggs have hatched, matured, and are now seeking out mates. Sac Spiders, which typically live in gardens, will find their way inside at this time seeking warmth. Wolf Spiders have been known to enter homes during this season, so we recommend keeping grass mowed and leaf piles disposed of quickly as these are their preferred hunting grounds.  

Winter  

Spiders do not hibernate, and some even produce a glycol compound that acts like antifreeze to help them survive winter. Eggs laid at this time require warmth, so you’ll notice more activity around pipes, under sinks, and extra webbing as they insulate their egg sacs. Southern House Spiders are more apt to grow in numbers during winter, so be sure to dust and clean high spaces, and repair cracks or holes along walls, to discourage infestation. Huntsman Spiders will also find their way inside, as they cannot survive the falling temperatures of winter outdoors. 

Spring  

Spring brings with it more spider visibility, as this is when most spider species lay their eggs, and when fall/winter sacs begin to hatch. Hobo Spider eggs are hatching, and Brown Recluse activity is in full swing. Be sure to inspect windows, screens, cracks/gaps in foundation, and gaps/space between doors and doorframes to keep these typically non-aggressive but potentially dangerous pests out.  

Spider Pest Control You Can Count On 

Spiders have the potential to be a nuisance year-round. Most are harmless, but some have quite painful and potentially deadly bites, making regular spider pest control an important part of home maintenance. The highly trained team of professionals at Inman-Murphy have over 25 years of experience keeping the residents of mid-south TN pest free and are ready to help. Don’t hesitate to give us a call today and get started with a free quote! 

Dealing with Tick Bites on Your Dog

Person removing tick from dog | Inman-Murphy | Tick Control in TN

Ticks can spell trouble for our furry friends, causing irritation, infections, and even serious diseases. Understanding the impact of tick bites on dogs and learning how to protect them from these pesky parasites is crucial. There are many ways to keep ticks away from your dog, including preventative medications and property pest prevention.

Dangers of Ticks in Tennessee 

Here in Tennessee, we primarily deal with two kinds of ticks: the Deer Tick and the American Dog Tick. These ticks often live in taller grass, close to walkways and trails, waiting for a host to get close. Ticks are ectoparasites that feed on the blood of animals, including dogs. They often target areas with less hair and more blood vessels, such as the ears, neck, belly, and legs. Within 24 hours of biting, ticks can transmit diseases such as:

  • Rocky Mountain spotted fever
  • Lyme disease
  • Tularemia

Tick Preventative Measures

Preventing ticks on your dog is best achieved by using tick-preventive products that kill or repel ticks before they can bite. Various options are available, including topical products applied to the skin once a month, oral tablets or chews given monthly or every three months, and collars worn continuously for up to eight months. Your veterinarian can guide you in selecting the most suitable preventive product based on your dog’s age, weight, health condition, and lifestyle.

In addition to using preventive products, there are practical steps you can take to protect your dog from ticks. 

  • Conduct daily tick checks, especially after outdoor activities, and avoid areas with tall grass, brush, or woods where ticks may lurk. 
  • Keeping your yard clean and well-maintained helps reduce tick habitats.
  • Wearing long pants and socks when venturing into wooded or grassy areas adds an extra layer of protection.
  • Having a professional tick exterminator treat your property.

Tick Removal Steps

If you discover a tick on your dog, it’s important to act swiftly but calmly. 

  1. Using gloves, tweezers, or a tick removal tool, grasp the tick’s base near your dog’s skin and pull it out slowly and straight. 
  2. Avoid squeezing or twisting the tick too forcefully. 
  3. Dispose of the tick in a jar with alcohol, clean the bite and apply antibiotic cream. 
  4. If you encounter difficulties removing a tick or if it’s in a delicate spot, like the eyes, mouth, or ears, seek assistance from your veterinarian.

Professional Tick Control Experts

Even with preventive measures in place, encountering ticks on your property or in your home is still possible. That’s where Inman-Murphy Termite & Pest Control’s PestFree365 services come into play. As a trusted pest control company serving Mid-South Tennessee since 1992, we have the expertise, knowledge, and tools to identify, eliminate, and prevent ticks and other pests from harming your family and pets.

By choosing our PestFree365 services, you can benefit from:

  1. A thorough inspection of your property
  2. A customized treatment plan. 
  3. Regular service schedule to maintain a pest-free* environment. 

We also provide a guarantee that covers any pest issues that may arise between services.

Don’t let ticks compromise you and your dog’s health and happiness. Contact Inman-Murphy today for a free inspection and estimate. Our team is dedicated to keeping your home and pets protected year-round.

Mosquito Prevention: Some Do’s, Some Don’ts

A person spraying bug spray on someone else's arm.

For those living in the beautiful city of Memphis it seems mosquito season is never ending. Many people are looking for a fast and easy solution to ending the attacks by these blood-thirsty feeders. While mosquito bites are annoying, they also cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
According to the World Health Organization, mosquitoes account for over 700,000 deaths per year. Mosquitoes pose great health risks from vector-borne diseases they can spread, such as:

  • Malaria
  • Zika Virus
  • West Nile Virus

DIY Mosquito Prevention Do’s

It is imperative to start mosquito prevention early before an infestation can start. Ultimately, the best method is professional pest control. Yet, many methods of DIY prevention can work, including:

  • Remove Standing Water: Dumping anything that water collects in as well as fixing any leaky or broken faucets will prevent standing water from forming. Mosquitoes love stagnant water as it is a perfect nursery for laying eggs.
  • Use Outdoor Fans: Considering mosquitoes are weak fliers, air currents from fans can push mosquitoes out and disperses the carbon monoxide we exhale.
  • Mosquito Netting: By adding netting to your doors and windows, you place a barrier round your space to keep the invading mosquitoes out. This netting also prevents other insects from getting into your home.
  • Use Bug Spray: Many EPA-approved insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin are available on the market. Use any insect repellent in accordance with the supplier’s instructions.

DIY Mosquito Prevention Don’ts

While there are many DIY methods that work, many methods do not work. Steer away from these:

  • Citronella Candles: While these candles are great for ambiance and saving electricity, they do little for repelling mosquitoes long-term. They need to be replaced often as they lose potency quickly. These candles are effective for a short amount of time and only if you are directly next to the candle.
  • Coffee Grounds: There is no solid evidence that burning coffee grounds or spreading the grounds around your yard works  in repelling mosquitoes. Instead, use the grounds in your compost bin for the garden!
  • Bug Zappers: Mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale and our body heat. Bug zappers do not have either of these qualities going for them. Instead, these zappers can kill natural predators of mosquitoes and other good-doing insects.

Professional Pest Control Services

The never-ending fight against mosquitoes can leave you drained from keeping up on the DIY methods you choose. Spend your spring and summer months pest-free* with the help of Inman-Murphy Termite & Pest Control. Our expert technicians come to your property to conduct an inspection and formulate a plan that suites your needs! Call today for a no-obligation consultation.

Common Swarming Insects this Spring

Several ants on a green leaf in springtime

Spring is here, which means the weather is warming and the flowers are blooming. However, this time of year also brings a less pleasant change… insects. As we come out of winter, bugs throughout the Mid-South TN area are waking up and searching for new places to infest. Knowing how to protect your property from common swarming insects this spring will help you prevent an infestation from taking root. 

What is a Swarm?

A swarm is a natural phenomenon where a large group of insects of the same species gather and move together as a group. In the spring, many pests throughout the Mid-South TN area swarm to find food and mate. Insect swarms can be visually striking and scary to encounter, but most don’t pose a threat to your safety. That said, a swarm can often lead to a full-blown infestation, so it’s still important to keep an eye on any pests that swarm on or near your property. 

Common Swarming Pests in Mid-South TN

Dealing with a year-long pest infestation can be a frustrating and costly ordeal, especially when it all begins with a one-day swarm. That’s why it’s essential to take preventive measures to keep swarms from escalating and turning into full-blown infestations. To help you avoid this problem in the Mid-South TN area, it’s crucial to be aware of the common swarming pests that tend to emerge during springtime:

Ants

Roughly 1,000 different ant species throughout the United States begin growing wings and forming swarms in the spring. Most do so to establish new colonies, which is why you don’t want to let them settle into your home or garden. Ants are not usually toxic, but they can be bothersome to find all over the place – especially inside of your kitchen. Here are some tips to help you prevent ants from settling into your space:

  • Keep your counters and floors clean
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers
  • Clean food scraps from your kitchen sink
  • Repair broken pipes or other moisture problems

Termites

Though termites look awfully similar to ants, they’re a much bigger problem for home and business owners. These tiny insects are capable of chewing through crucial wooden structures, which can ruin the stability of your building and lead to thousands of dollars in repairs. Most termites seek damp or damaged wood, which they use for food and nesting. To catch an infestation before it can wreak havoc on your property, look for these warning signs:

  • Long mud tubes along the floor or wall
  • Small holes or tunnels in wood
  • Discarded wings or dead insects
  • Piles of “frass” – similar to sawdust
  • Live insects or swarms on your property

Not sure if it’s a termite or an ant? Look at the wings and antennae; if the wings are all the same size and the antennae are straight, then you’re likely dealing with a termite. If you still aren’t sure what pest is invading your property, get in touch with a professional! Taking care of a termite infestation is a time-sensitive situation, and every minute you wait can cost you. A professional will be able to correctly identify the species and create a personalized plan to eliminate the pests from your space.

Bees

While honeybees and bumblebees are valuable pollinators and play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, encountering a swarm of these stinging insects in or around your home can be a frightening experience. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent bees from swarming on your property:

  • Eliminate food sources: Contrary to popular belief, bees don’t just feed on pollen and nectar. They are also drawn to other sugary substances and may circle any food you leave out. Clean up after your picnics or barbeques to deter them from invading your yard.
  • Seal cracks or gaps in your home: A buzzing nest in your attic is the last thing you should have to worry about. Bees typically look for quiet and sheltered areas to nest, which makes easily-accessible homes the perfect environment. Seal any potential openings that lead indoors.
  • Disrupt or remove standing water: Bees need water to survive, and they can sip from tiny puddles. Go around your yard and eliminate any puddles you can find. Look in places like garden pots, playground equipment, wheelbarrows, and gutters. 

If you notice a swarm of bees on or near your property, contact a professional right away. Bees play a crucial role in our local ecosystem, so we strive to protect the insects while keeping them away from your space. 

Wasps

Despite looking so similar to bees, hornets and wasps display very different behaviors. Most are aggressive and capable of stinging multiple times, which makes them a huge threat to small children, pets, and people with allergies. Wasps typically have a more angular body than bees with a thin, pinched waist. They also lack the fuzz that bees are known for, and may have white or orange markings in addition to yellow. To prevent wasps from establishing a colony in your home or yard, follow these tips:

  • Clean up spilled food or crumbs, even in your yard
  • Don’t leave your picnic or barbecue leftovers out
  • Store your trash in tightly lidded bins
  • Keep your pet food bowls clean or indoors
  • Regularly check for the signs of a nest

Should you discover a wasp swarm or nest nearby, do not approach the insects. They can lead to painful stings or potentially dangerous situations, which is why these infestations are always best left to the professionals. Contact an expert right away to have a quick and safe wasp removal process.

Pest Control Experts in Mid-South TN

Notice swarming pests in your home or garden? Call the professional exterminators at Inman-Murphy, Inc.! We understand how disconcerting it can be to encounter a large group of flying insects, which is why we offer fast response times and quick solutions geared toward long-term results. All of our technicians are fully licensed, certified, and well-versed in handling local pest species. Whatever problem you’re facing, our team knows how to come up with a personalized solution that will keep your property pest-free* for good. Contact us today for a free quote!

TAP® Insulation: Your Path to a Pest-Free Home

silverfish on wall

There’s a lot you can do to deter pests around your home in the Mid-South TN area. You can de-clutter and properly store your garbage and dry goods. There are some DIY solutions that use essential oils to repel certain pests, or home renovation tactics that use screens or caulk to block others. These all can work to varying degrees, but is that all you can do? What if there was a way to always be killing pests without the need for traps? And what if you can fight pests while also making your home more comfortable and efficient? TAP Insulation makes all of this possible. It’s a form of home insulation beloved by certain pest control companies, and it’s a service we offer for households in Mid-South TN. If you’re ready to step up your pest control strategy with only one simple installation, Inman-Murphy, Inc. is here to help!

TAP® Insulation: A Basic Overview

TAP stands for Thermal, Acoustical, Pest Control insulation. It is made up of loose-fill cellulose that’s blown into the attics of existing home, or in the floors and walls of new builds. What separates TAP from other insulations like fiberglass or spray foam is how it’s been chemically treated with Boric acid. Boric acid is naturally occurring and is commonly used as a cleaning agent or in first aid, but it’s especially unique as being one of the most effective pesticides on the market today. It can kill a variety of bugs – including ants, silverfish and pill bugs – before they grow in numbers enough to truly infest your property.

The pests have easy access to the insulation – that’s how it starts. It coats their bodies, and since a majority of insect pests are surprisingly hygienic, they end up ingesting the boric acid when they groom themselves or each other. These insects are unable to pass the material, so they soon after die of dehydration or malnutrition. And just like that, you’ve solved a threat to the structure of your home with no effort on your part.

What TAP® Pest Control Insulation Can Do for You

Are there other benefits to TAP Insulation aside from its pest-killing properties? Yes, not only is TAP a persistent pesticide to insects as small as Formosan termites to larger cockroaches and beetles, it’s also a very good insulator. It’s made of cellulose, which slows the transfer of heat, keeping you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Your HVAC system will work better with less energy, and you’ll quickly see that reflected in your monthly utility bill.

Inman-Murphy, Inc. for Proper TAP® Insulation

TAP Insulation is not considered toxic for children, adults, or any pets in the household. However, you still need to take the effort to get the material installed by a qualified professional. At Inman-Murphy, Inc., we’ve been treating households in Mid-South TN for pests since 1999. It’s only one of our residential pest control services, all designed to keep your home pest-free* on an ongoing basis. We think our friends and neighbors deserve a constant defender that can put a stop to potential pest infestations without you having to lift a finger, and that’s exactly what you’ll get from TAP Insulation. We’ll still be there on the off chance you have an infestation, but when properly involved TAP can greatly reduce the risk. So if you want to work smarter instead of harder Inman-Murphy, Inc. is here to help. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an estimate!