Can Roaches Come in Through Air Vents?

It’s safe to say that cockroaches are one of the most hated insects on the planet. Even though they aren’t poisonous and don’t pose a threat in most cases, many people have a genuine fear of cockroaches. The official name for the roach phobia is katsaridaphobia.

When someone spots a roach in their house a few questions immediately come to mind. One question is, how did that disgusting thing get in here?

We know that roaches can squeeze through cracks and crevices that seem paper-thin, and they’re always crawling across pipes on their quest for water. However, there may be another route inside you home that’s much more accessible. There’s a chance that cockroaches are making their way inside through the air vents.

Keep reading to find out if your vents are giving roaches direct access into your home and how these prickly-legged pests navigate their way inside.

Vents – The Perfect Roadway for Roaches

When you think about it, vents are perfect for roaches, especially when the heater makes them warm and toasty. Roaches are always looking for a way inside, and this is an easy access point because vents on the exterior of the home connect to the air ducts inside. Once they’re inside, air ducts allow roaches to work their way through the entire house unnoticed. Roaches can also get into the AC system through the drain pipe.

Another reason vents attract roaches is their dark, cavernous environment. Cockroaches are nocturnal insects that like to stay in the shadows. Vents give roaches a route around the house that’s completely free of light.

The other thing that makes vents perfect for roaches is the heat and moisture. Roaches prefer places that are warm and moist, which is why they are so abundant in the south. During the fall and winter when the heat is on, the air vents are one of the most comfortable spots in the house for roaches.

Air Flow is No Match for Roach Legs

If you thought that blasting air through your vents would keep roaches from crawling through, think again. Roaches are made to make their way through many odd, inhospitable spaces thanks to their amazing legs.

Roaches are renowned climbers. They have six legs and each one has two claws that latch on tight to virtually any surface. There are also tiny hairs all over the legs that increase a roach’s ability to grip. Their “knees” is especially incredible. They can sense the tiniest vibration, which serves as an early warning sensor letting roaches know the air is kicking on. It’s enough of a head’s up for the roach to brace itself against the force.

Long story short – even if the air is constantly flowing, roaches can make their way through the ducts and out the vents.

Why Roaches in Vents is Such a Big Problem

Cockroaches in the vents is a big problem. It’s the last thing you want if you have allergies. Their skin shedding, saliva and feces can make allergies and asthma worse. When the air kicks on it can spread the allergens through the whole house.

Even if you don’t have allergies, cockroaches will lower the air quality. You may notice their foul odor wafting through your home. No matter how you try to freshen the air, the roach excrement will just keep coming.

The biggest problem is that it can be tough to get rid of roaches that have gotten into vents. Air ducts are a part of a home’s inner workings, which makes it difficult to locate an infestation. Few pest control companies are actually going to get into the airways, and it’s nearly impossible for homeowners to do this on their own. Often you’ll need a very thorough pest treatment in order to eradicate roaches that have found their way into the ventilation.

How to Know If Your Vents Are Letting Roaches Inside

Are your vents inviting cockroaches inside? Some vents are more secure than others. If you have anything of the following issues you’re more likely to have cockroaches in your vents.

Your vents don’t have screens. This prevents roaches from being able to squeeze through. It’s also a good idea to seal around the vents.

The vents are cracked or damaged. Cracked vents don’t just let roaches inside. Bigger pests like rodents can also squirm in if the bent is damaged. Vents and air ducts should be checked regularly for signs of damage and pest activity.

There’s vegetation around the vents. Vegetation gives all sorts of pests a place to hide. If it’s around the vent vines, shrubs and branches also make it easier for roaches to get inside.

Have you noticed more roaches crawling around your vents? Then give Vulcan Termite and Pest Control Inc. a call. We provide custom treatments that take care of a number of household pests, including roaches. Let us know how we can help you get your home ready for fall.

Original Source: https://www.vulcantermite.com/home-pest-control/can-roaches-come-air-vents/