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How to seal gap in AC conduit leading into roof?

UnsureWhatToDo

Hi All,

I am hoping to get some advise on how to plug a conduit that has AC pipe and wires leading into the roof.

I have recently noticed a mouse has entered the roof and want to prevent this from reoccuring so wanted to know what was the best approach to seal this entry point

The conduit is low to the ground and has 3 phase power and some copper pipes coming out from what I can tell. All of these have some sleeves on them.

I was told I could use copper mesh and force some of it tightly within the conduit entry but was worried about the fact that copper is conductive and there is Three Phase power in this metal conduit.

Please help me with suggestions or help confirm my concerns around the steel/copper wool theory.

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EricL

Hello @UnsureWhatToDo

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your AC conduit.

In order to get a better idea of the size of the access point, would it be possible for you to share a picture of where the conduits enter your house? Some of the possible ways to block the entrance point is to use https://www.bunnings.com.au/parfix-340g-expanding-foam-filler_p1232844 or https://www.bunnings.com.au/sika-300ml-white-sikaflex-11fc-purform_p0628965 in combination with https://www.bunnings.com.au/fix-it-fast-repair-tape-50mm-x-5m-aluminium-waterproof-flashing-tape_p0592331 . However, it will depend on what the access point looks like. Once we see it we'll be able to offer you a clear recommendation on possible ways to seal the entrance point.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

UnsureWhatToDo

Thanks for the prompt response!

It's greatly appreciated

See attached photos, I've just used electrical tape for the moment.

EricL

Hello @UnsureWhatToDo

Thank you for sharing that photo of the access point. I propose removing the electrical tape and using https://www.bunnings.com.au/parfix-340g-expanding-foam-filler_p1232844 to fill the gaps in the conduits. I recommend pushing the spraying straw deep into the gap so that the foam covers all the nooks and crannies of the conduit. Please keep in mind that the foam will expand to three times its size, so it's best not to over fill the gap so that you don't waste a great deal of the foam. Should the AC technician need to access the conduit the expanding foam can be removed and broken up into small pieces.

I then suggest using the https://www.bunnings.com.au/fix-it-fast-repair-tape-50mm-x-5m-aluminium-waterproof-flashing-tape_p0592331 in strips to properly cover all possible entry points into the conduit gaps at the bottom.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @TedBear, @JoeAzza and @DIY4Knuckleheds for their recommendations.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves and goggles when working on your project.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

Dave-1

Good Morning @UnsureWhatToDo

I would go an even easier route, I would use some of the el-cheapo kitchen scourers and fold them over and insert them. Keeping the rough course side facing out so the mice will decide to go elsewhere. Mr Clean Sponge Scourer - 10 Pack

I have used stainless steel wool and also course sponges on air vents when bees where wanting to make their home inside my walls and it stopped them in their tracks :/ and :) at the same time.

You could go steel wool as it will be safe but like you if there is a safer way why not use that :)

Dave

TedBear

Hi @UnsureWhatToDo

That looks very much like part of an air-conditioning installation. The insulated pipes carry the aircon gas between the main unit and the internal heat exchanger plate. The flexible electrical conduit contains the power leads.

I think the suggestion from @EricL will serve your needs best as it gives a full seal around the circular pipes and conduit as well as attaching itself firmly to the rectangular conduit. The hot and cold aircon gas pipes won't affect it either.

Also, unlike steel wool and copper, the foam is non-conductive and won't be affected by weather conditions. The quick, easy, fairly cheap and very effective solution is to use the foam.

UnsureWhatToDo

Hi Eric and Dave,

Thanks for taking the time out of your day to respond.

I was told steel wool or copper mesh would be a good route as copper won't rust etc.

The only concern I had was that ribbed conduit has power going from the roof to the AC unit and wasn't sure if Copper Mesh like the attached was a wise/safe idea, what are your thoughts on this?

Dave-1

Good Morning @UnsureWhatToDo

Your call really, $$$ for the mesh or $$ for the alternatives. Any of them will stop the mice from using it as a highway.

Dave

JacobZ

Hi @UnsureWhatToDo,

It sounds like it could work, but I'd be inclined to run it by an electrician before settling on that idea.

Jacob