HVAC Maintenance Tips for Pet Owners
By Brian Sodoma, for Service Experts
As reported by the American Pet Products Association’s 2024 National Pet Owner Survey, more than 82 million homes own a pet. The largest number of these family members are dogs, cats and other furry friends who tend to shed or release dander into their homes. While it’s a pleasure to own a pet, you’ll want to take a few extra steps to maintain your HVAC system. Follow these seven tips for pet-friendly HVAC maintenance:
1. Swap Out or Clean Your Air Filter Consistently
Indoor air quality depends on the state of your air filter since it removes dust, dander and allergens from the air. If you own pets, you may have to replace filters more frequently.
“It starts with checking the filter more regularly,” said Jim Hughes, Director of Field Training with Service Experts, one of the nation’s largest HVAC service and repair companies. “If you, for example, have a filter that’s expected to last 90 days, you may want to take a look once a month. Pets can clog up the air filter much faster, especially during shedding seasons.”
2. Consider Upgrading Your System’s Air Filter
You may also think about getting a higher-rated air filter. Find the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) to learn the smallest particle size your air filter will trap. For residential use, filter ratings range between five and 13, and the higher the number, the better the filtration. Consider at least a nine or higher to capture dander well, Hughes added. A few pet owners also choose a more advanced whole home ventilation and air purification system.
3. Don’t Let the Air Conditioner’s Condenser Break Down
Your air conditioning system, especially the outdoor unit, should be cleaned as part of a comprehensive HVAC tune-up. AC condensers have coils/heat exchangers that collect their share of dirt and debris each year. In some unfortunate situations, pets may urinate on the outdoor unit, and if they are around it often enough, their fur may get pulled into the coils and clog them up.
“The acidity in pet urine can actually damage the AC coils and potentially cause a refrigerant leak,” he said. “And a lot of hair in the condenser will start to affect system efficiency.” If needed, install a fence around the unit, but ensure airflow remains unobstructed, Hughes suggests.
4. Groom Your Pet Regularly
If you brush your pet often, you’ll reduce the amount of hair clogging your vents. “I recommend people use a vacuum brush to get rid of extra hair from their pets. That way you avoid spreading the hair and dander you’re brushing off into the home,” Hughes added.
5. Vacuum More Often and Clean Your Return Vents
Vacuuming more often can reduce the amount of hair and dander getting into your HVAC system. As long as you’re vacuuming, vacuum the return air vents as well. The return vent system varies according to your home’s layout. Regardless, you’ll always find return air vents and supply air vents. Return air vents pull in air and then filter and recirculate it across your home using the supply air vents, so more vacuuming is an extra way to minimize unwanted dust, dander and hair.
6. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up Twice a Year
Your HVAC system should be serviced by a professional technician twice a year to make sure everything is working properly, particularly for pet owners. As the HVAC specialist arrives, it’s a good idea to ask them about additional steps you can take to maintain your system’s overall efficiency.
“The visiting technician is an extra set of eyes for you to monitor how pets affect your system,” Hughes said. “A routine maintenance call is the perfect time to establish a beneficial relationship that ensures a longer-lasting HVAC system.”
Explore Duct Cleaning Services
When your HVAC system’s air filters become clogged, dust and common allergens can leak into the ducts, causing more trouble with your home’s air quality. If pet hair and dander still isn’t under control, you might want to consider professional duct cleaning services.
“I know some pet owners who have their duct work cleaned every few years. Duct cleaning can be a longer-lasting solution for pet owners,” Hughes said.
To get all the details about how to maintain indoor air quality when you own pets, go to ServiceExperts.com/indoor-air-quality/ or schedule your HVAC maintenance call today.
