Venomous snake crawls out of air conditioner and bites 7-year-old girl – a chilling reminder about a household danger

Air conditioners are common appliances in every household, but if not properly installed and maintained, they can become gateways for dangerous intruders.

Recently, a terrifying incident shocked the public when a 7-year-old girl was bitten by a krait snake that emerged from her family’s air conditioner. Thankfully, she was rushed to the hospital in time and is now recovering.

This rare but alarming case highlights the hidden risks of neglecting AC maintenance. While designed to cool our homes, poorly installed or dirty units can serve as nesting spots for rats, cockroaches, and even snakes—creatures that thrive in warm, hidden spaces.

How Do Snakes Enter Air Conditioners?

When installing AC systems, technicians drill holes in the wall for copper pipes and drainage hoses. If these openings aren’t sealed properly afterward, they create perfect entryways for rodents and reptiles.

Unused air conditioners also accumulate dust and moisture, attracting rats searching for shelter. Since snakes often hunt rodents, the scent of rats can lure them inside. With its dark, warm, and undisturbed environment, the AC unit becomes an ideal hiding place or hunting ground.

Protecting Your Air Conditioner and Home

To reduce the risk of snakes or pests sneaking in through air conditioners, experts recommend:

Seal installation holes properly: Check around pipes and drainage hoses. Any gaps should be sealed with mortar, silicone, or foam.

Choose the right location for the outdoor unit: Avoid placing it near plants, damp corners, or tin roofs, which attract rodents and insects. Instead, install it in an open, clean space that can be easily inspected.

Cover drainage hose openings: Attach fine wire mesh to block small animals from crawling inside.

Clean the AC regularly: Routine cleaning every 3–6 months not only improves efficiency but also helps detect nests, strange odors, or foreign objects early.

Pay attention to warning signs: If you hear unusual sounds, notice odd smells, or see snakes nearby, don’t try to dismantle the unit yourself. Call a technician immediately.

Extra Measures to Keep Snakes Away

Plant natural repellents: Herbs like lemongrass, garlic vine, and holy basil can deter snakes when grown around the house.

Maintain a clean yard: Trim overgrown bushes, remove piles of debris, and eliminate damp corners that serve as snake shelters.

Use sulfur or lime powder: Sprinkling these substances can repel rats and cockroaches, reducing the food sources that attract snakes.

A Reminder for Families

Air conditioners aren’t just about comfort—they also play a role in home safety. Proper installation, routine cleaning, and sealing all entry points are essential to prevent dangerous surprises. By staying vigilant and acting quickly at the first sign of trouble, you can ensure your cooling system keeps your family safe—not put them at risk.