Many Southeast Michigan homeowners are dog lovers; in fact, many of us think of our pets as a member of the family. Just like your children, it’s likely your family dog has a few habits you aren’t too fond of. While it’s common knowledge that dogs (especially puppies) enjoy chewing on those things they aren’t supposed to chew on, scratching furniture, jumping up on the sofa, and damaging other belongings, you probably didn’t know that your beloved Fido may be putting your air conditioning system at risk! Even if your dog is well trained, there is one “secret” habit he may have that he’s hiding from you: Urinating on your air conditioner.
For A/C Equipment, Dog Urine Can Be Deadly
Ultimately, dog urine can damage your A/C system to the point that it’s beyond repair, meaning you must replace your air conditioner. Hopefully, though, you’ve discovered the issue before it’s gotten to this point.
When a dog urinates on an air conditioner, the urine will literally disintegrate the outer shell over time, and destroy the interior coils. Eventually, if the ‘habit’ is not discovered, the air conditioner’s coils will spring a leak which makes it possible for the refrigerant to escape. Refrigerant is essential for cooling, so when this happens your A/C system cannot cool your home. At the point leaks have formed in your air conditioning’s coils, making repairs is no longer an option.
The good news? If things haven’t progressed to this stage yet, you can create a barrier to keep Fido a safe distance from your unit. A simple fence placed about 1 1/2 to 2 feet from the unit will allow for air flow, while preventing your dog from causing any further damage.
How Haley Mechanical Can Help
First of all, you may want to consider checking your air conditioner for discoloration and corrosion around the base, along with the unmistakable odor of urine to determine if your male dog (or even a neighbor’s) has been doing the dirty deed to your A/C system. If you do detect signs, Haley Mechanical can help.
All you have to do is give us a call, and we will be happy to schedule a complete inspection of your cooling system. A coil cleaning may be all it takes to get your A/C back in good working order if the damage is not extensive. Otherwise, we can assist you in finding a new system that is energy efficient, and right for your needs regarding size. If your current system is salvageable, we’ll help you determine how to best protect the unit from potential further urine damage.
Live in Ann Arbor, Dexter, Ypsilanti or nearby communities of SE Michigan? Give us a call today for all of your air conditioning installation or maintenance needs.
