Gecko’s – Friend or Foe?

Why do Geckos love a printed circuit board?

Sure they’re as cute as a button, but why are they so darn attracted to printed circuit boards?

Geckos are not specifically attracted to printed circuit boards (PCBs) per se. However, geckos are known to be attracted to areas where insects or other small prey may be found, and in some cases, PCBs can provide an attractive habitat for these insects.

PCBs are often found in areas where electronic devices are located, and these devices can emit heat, which can attract insects. Insects such as moths, flies, and spiders are known to be attracted to electronic devices and PCBs, and geckos may be attracted to these areas to feed on these insects.

Additionally, some PCBs may contain a type of chemical compound called phthalates, which can emit a scent that is similar to the scent of gecko pheromones. This scent may attract geckos to the area, as they may mistake it for the scent of a potential mate or territory marker.

It's important to note that not all geckos will be attracted to PCBs, and the level of attraction may vary depending on the species of gecko and the specific circumstances. If you are experiencing issues with geckos in your home or workplace, it's best to consult with a pest control professional to determine the best course of action.

How to Gecko Proof your Air Conditioner

Geckos can be attracted to air conditioners because they provide a warm and sheltered environment, and the units can also attract insects that geckos like to eat. However, geckos can cause damage to air conditioners by crawling inside and clogging the unit's drain line or worse, causing your aircon to malfunction by a Gecko short circuiting the printed circuit board within the outdoor unit.  Not only can this be very inconvenient, but also extremely expensive.  Here are some steps you can take to gecko-proof your air conditioner:

1. Use gecko repellents: There are several natural gecko repellents available, such as mothballs, coffee grounds, or essential oils like peppermint or lemongrass and even garlic cloves. Place these around or inside the unit to help deter geckos from entering. Please note that Mothballs are poisonous and should not be ingested and must be kept away from pets and children.
2. Keep the area around the unit clear: Clear away any debris or clutter around the air conditioner unit, as this can attract insects and provide hiding places for geckos.
3. Use a professional pest control service: If you're having persistent issues with geckos or other pests, consider hiring a professional pest control service to help you manage the problem.

By taking these steps, you can help prevent geckos from entering and damaging your air conditioner unit.

While these methods are a quick and inexpensive solution, they are not 100% full proof and will need to be an ongoing preventative measure.  For a more effective treatment, our technicians can add a gecko protective treatment directly onto the printed circuit board to help guard the electrical circuit (and won’t hurt the gecko!)

This treatment should only be carried out by a qualified service technician to avoid any warranty issues and or potential damage to your unit.

Contact Morphett Air now to give your air conditioning unit a fighting chance by applying a Gecko preventative treatment!  Not having it done can potentially cost you a whole lot more.