Are you a homeowner with pets? If so, your HVAC system likely needs some additional attention to keep it running optimally. Many people are unaware of the impact that pets can have on HVAC systems, and it’s important that you take certain precautions to ensure your system lasts as long as possible. In this article, we will explain how homeowners can make sure their HVAC units are not being negatively impacted by their furry family members.
Change Your Air Filters Frequently
Your HVAC air filters play a huge role in keeping your indoor air clean and comfortable. Air filters help to filter out contaminants from your indoor air, improving air quality and HVAC efficiency. Typically, your air filters should be replaced every 3 months to ensure you are getting optimal airflow. However, homes that have pets should check the air filters more often. Pets, particularly cats and dogs, can shed a lot of fur, which can build up overtime and clog your air filters. In addition to fur, pet dander can also accumulate in your air filters, causing them to get clogged faster than the typical 3-month timeframe. If you have furry pets, it’s important that you regularly check and replace your air filters to ensure you are receiving good air quality and optimal airflow.
Pets Can Cause Unseen Damage
If you have pets that go outside, it’s important that you protect your exterior unit from damage. Consider taking measures to protect your unit from your pets’ curiosity, such as building a small barrier around the unit like a fence. If left unattended, pets can scratch, chew, and urinate on your HVAC unit, which can cause a considerable amount of damage and reduce the efficiency of your system. Dogs are often guilty of peeing on outside items, but it’s very important that you protect your HVAC unit from dog urine, as it is highly acidic and can quickly corrode important elements of your unit, such as copper coil and aluminum fins. Protecting your unit from pet damage is a great way to extend the life of your HVAC unit and avoid costly repairs.
Clean Your Air Ducts
Air ducts, like air filters, become dirty over time, and this can happen much quicker if you have pets in your home. Along with dust, pet dander can build up in your air ducts and cause poor air quality. Poor air quality from dirty air ducts can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions like asthma. Keeping your air ducts clean is a great way to protect your HVAC unit as well as the quality of your indoor air. Not sure if your air ducts need to be cleaned? Take a look behind one of the air vents and see if it has a build up of dust or debris. If so, it’s likely that your air ducts need to be cleaned out. If you have the time and energy, you can attempt to clean out the air ducts yourself, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.
Eliminate Excess Pet Hair and Dander
Keeping your home clean and free of excess pet hair can help your HVAC unit do its job more efficiently, without having to work extra hard to filter out as much pet hair. If you have long-haired pets, consider brushing them regularly to reduce the amount of shedding around your home. This will not only help your HVAC unit, but it will also help you save on air filters. The less pet hair and dander that clogs your air filters, the longer they will last. If you need an extra boost to eliminate excess pet hair and dander, consider investing in a system enhancement such as an air scrubber or air purifier. At Carolina Comfort Air, we carry a variety of system enhancements that can help keep your home comfortable all year long.
Regular Maintenance is Key
All homeowners should have annual HVAC maintenance to keep their units working efficiently and free of problems. But maintenance is even more important for homeowners with pets. Pets can cause unseen damage that can be identified and addressed by a trained HVAC technician. Regular maintenance appointments give homeowners the opportunity to have their units assessed by trained professionals who can identify any damage from pets and advise you about solutions.
Don’t let your furry family members wreck your HVAC unit. Use these 5 tips to keep your HVAC unit running smooth all year long.
Need to schedule your HVAC maintenance? Contact the team at Carolina Comfort Air today at (919) 348-4451!