Pets can create a unique set of challenges for your HVAC system. This is true any time of year, but keeping your system running efficiently is especially important in the winter, when cold temps keep windows closed and ventilation limited. Meanwhile, your pets are spending more time indoors, meaning more fur and dirt for your HVAC system to deal with.
Taking a few extra steps to protect your HVAC system will keep it running more efficiently with less wear on its parts and will maintain the air quality in your home at a level that keeps your family healthy and comfortable.
Consider the following, especially if you have more than one pet in your home:
• Bathe dogs on a regular basis. Not only does this practice keep dirt, pollen and other allergens out of your home, clean dogs don’t shed as much either.
• Contact your groomer for regular trims, especially for long haired dogs. Less shedding means longer life for your air filter and less potential clogging of air ducts.
• Cats typically will clean themselves but if yours tend to enjoy the outdoors, keep a close eye on their cleanliness and make the effort to brush cats regularly to reduce shedding. You may also discuss bathing options with your veterinarian.
• Frequent vacuuming will go a long way to keeping fur and debris out of your HVAC system. Spend extra time on corners and furniture that your pets favor, especially during winter when they spend more time indoors.
• The more pets you have, the more often you will need to change your air filter. Don’t neglect yours—a clogged air filter will decrease the efficiency of your system and have a dramatic impact on your air quality. If you have multiple pets, you may want to consider an upgraded filter designed just for multi-pet households.
• Clogged vents and ducts can be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. Seal vents to prevent pet fur from clogging them and vacuum them whenever you vacuum the floor and furniture. Consider having your ducts cleaned by a professional if you suspect a clog.
• Use a HEPA air purifier to lengthen the life of your air filter. Air purifiers remove pet hair and dander, as well as other airborne allergens, from the air before they get to your air filter. Overall air quality will be better, especially for those family members who suffer from allergy symptoms.
• Schedule a maintenance check for your HVAC system in the spring and in the fall to be sure all parts and filters are ready for the coming season.
Don’t forget general safety tips when it comes to curious pets. Check for loose cords and cover exposed elements that could be a danger to pets, as well as small children. Stow all cords out of sight to reduce the possibility of them getting chewed or pulled.
Finally, consider the location of your AC condenser. This outdoor unit can easily be damaged by dogs that might be tempted to urinate on it, so consider creating a barrier that will keep dogs out.
Your HVAC unit works hard to keep your home comfortable all year round. If you need tips on how to protect it from your pets, or to schedule a maintenance check for your system, contact Lew’s Reliable Heat & Air Conditioning for expert service, or click here for more information.