Pet Owners HVAC Maintenance Guide

It’s critical to take care of your furry little friend as a pet owner. But, at the same time, you also need to consider ways in which your pets can affect your living space. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system may need more attention in a pet household.

How Pets Impact an HVAC System

The overall efficiency and functioning of a heating and cooling system can be affected by pets of all types. They usually cause an increase in dust, dander, and hair in the air, which can clog air filters and require frequent servicing. This post explains a few things you should know about HVAC maintenance as a pet parent.

Keep the Air Filters Clean

This is one thing that is discussed a lot in terms of HVAC system maintenance. It is even more vital when it comes to pets. Pets have both fur and dander that can end up in the air conditioning unit. Proper cleaning of the air filters is important. Depending on the type and number of pets you have, you may need to clean the air filters at least once every month. In case you have someone with allergies in the house, you may want to consider cleaning or replacing the filters twice every month.

Cleaning the Air Ducts

Consider air duct cleaning every year or as frequently as recommended by the Bay Area HVAC technician. Air ducts are responsible for air flow in the house. There is a high likelihood of fur and dander buildup in the ductwork. This can easily wind up in the HVAC system, which will tax the system and reduce its efficiency.

Protect Outdoor Unit

Healthy indoor air quality can be maintained only when the outdoor unit is functioning properly. The outdoor unit is more exposed when you have pets in the house. You may want to consider covering the unit for preventing your pets from getting into it.

You can always install a solid fence around the unit. However, make sure the fence is at least 3 feet away from the unit. This is to ensure steady air flow and proper ventilation. You may also want to keep away greenery, such as shrubs and plants away from the outdoor unit.

Vacuum Carpets

You may occasionally come across hair and fur if you have pets in the house. This can easily get into the filters and air ducts. The quality of air will be compromised. Also, the system will suffer from increased wear and tear. This is why it is recommended that you vacuum all indoor things, such as carpets and couches. This can be a big step in preventing fur, hair, and dander from getting into the system.

Groom Pets Regularly

Grooming makes pets look and smell better. But, it also helps in keeping away the stress of added wear and tear away from the HVAC system. Groomed pets shed less fur and dander. This means that there is less debris to clog the filters and air ducts of the air conditioning unit. Eventually, you will notice an improvement in the performance and quality of the HVAC system. You should also consider replacing the air filters regularly. This will put less pressure on the system.