Nixalite Keeping HVAC Systems Bird-Free

EAST MOLINE, Ill. — HVAC systems on rooftops are often inviting locations for birds to roost. The heat and shelter they provide are a draw for the birds. Also, pools of water often collect on the tops of flat-topped buildings, providing a convenient water source for the birds. As their droppings accumulate and dry out, this dust can get sucked into the HVAC system, spreading the disease-ridden dust throughout the entire building. This has caused people to get sick.

Ornithological research has found more than 60 transmittable bird-borne diseases and parasitic organisms that can lead to illness or death. When dried-out bird droppings are disturbed, a cloud of airborne dust can carry microorganisms into the lungs, causing inhalation illnesses such as histoplasmosis. Eating or drinking foods that have come into contact with bird-related bacteria can also cause ingestion sicknesses, including toxoplasmosis and query fever.

The current threat of avian flu means bird control may become more of an issue for building owners. So far, nearly all reported human cases of the illness have involved contact with infected birds—butchering chickens, eating undercooked poultry, or spending time in areas contaminated with bird blood or droppings.

For 26 years Frank Sorentino has managed the outside structures and grounds of the Beaumont Hospital 106-acre complex in Royal Oak, Mich. Bird control is an ongoing project for Sorentino and his crew.

“The pigeons go to the air handlers — the HVAC vents on the rooftops,” says Sorentino. “When dried bird droppings turn to dust and get sucked into the HVAC system, you’re dealing with the potential for spreading diseases throughout the hospital. It’s just not an acceptable risk.”

Sorentino has found success using stainless steel “porcupine wire” — easily installed, long-lasting bird deterrents. “We’ve used Nixalite spikes around the HVAC ducts where there are particular concentrations of birds, and it’s working well,” Sorentino said.

The device dates back to 1950, when the first “porcupine wire” was invented by Nixalite. Five years later, these newly invented, spike-covered mechanical barriers were installed on President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s farm near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. According to the farm’s maintenance supervisor, Ken Kime, the original installation is still in place, and has successfully kept the birds away without any maintenance for more than 50 years.

Used for building ledges, parapets, roof ridges, gutters, signs, awnings, HVAC units, rafters, or on most any surface where birds can land, bird spikes are constructed of stainless steel, plastic, or a combination thereof.

For more information email cory@nixalite.com, see Cory’s blog at http://pigeonbusters.blogspotcom or visit www.nixalite.com.

Wednesday, March 7, 2007