Pets are integral parts of countless people’s lives. In fact, many of us treat our pets like beloved members of the family, and we strive to keep them well cared for. Naturally, pet hair can be a constant struggle, adversely affecting your living space – especially your air conditioning system. But, with routine maintenance, you can avoid impeding your unit’s airflow and protect your cooling equipment from damage.

How does pet hair affect my HVAC system’s air filter?

When animals shed, their hair becomes airborne and eventually gets sucked into your HVAC system through your home’s return air ducts. If your system’s air filter is missing, pet hair accumulates within the evaporator coil, in the blower motor, and on the fan blades and other components, reducing efficiency. Pet hair can also become clogged with moisture in your cooling system, creating an ideal breeding ground for microbes, such as mold, which give off foul odors and lower your indoor air quality.

Pet hair isn’t harmless even when your system’s air filter is in place. When returned airflow reaches your HVAC system, the filter does its job by trapping the hair and preventing it from building up on those delicate cooling components. Unfortunately, at the same time, hair quickly clogs the filter, dramatically decreasing airflow and straining your system as a whole. As a result, you’ll experience higher energy bills and more frequent breakdowns without regular maintenance.

How about animal dander?

Dander is made up of microscopic skin flakes and saliva particles and is a common allergen that can cause respiratory problems for those suffering from asthma or allergies. You’ll benefit from replacing your regular filter with a higher efficiency model, such as a HEPA filter. These advanced filters more effectively capture and remove dander, which is much smaller than pet hair. The result is much cleaner and allergen-free indoor air, helping your family breathe more easily.

How do I care for my AC system with pets?

Don’t worry, pet lovers! You can take some easy steps to maintain the efficiency of your air conditioner, even living with pets in your home. Here’s how:

Keep a regular schedule when cleaning or replacing your air filter. Depending on how many pets you have and your filter’s efficiency rating, you’ll need a new filter every 30 to 90 days. Check it each month and replace it when you notice dirt and debris.

Clean your return air ducts regularly. Pet hair accumulates on your home’s air registers and vents, reducing airflow. You can easily clean these grilles with the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Like your filter, check them monthly, and clean them as often as needed. Then, every other year or so, call a professional to visit and thoroughly clean the collected pet hair, dander, and dust out of your ductwork.

Keep your pets well-groomed. Regular bathing and brushing are essential for reducing pet hair. Brush your pets outside whenever possible and sweep the area after you’re done, to keep any hair from finding its way back inside your home.

Vacuum and dust your home often. While pet hair affects your HVAC system the most, it can be found throughout your home. It settles on every surface and works its way under your furniture. To limit pet hair’s effect on your health, maintain a regular cleaning routine that includes vacuuming, dusting, and sweeping. Also, don’t forget to launder your pet’s bedding often!

Keep the area clear around your outdoor AC condenser unit clear. It’s always a good idea to clear away any accumulated debris, like grass clippings, dead leaves, and other yard waste, but it’s even more critical if Farfel’s run takes him near your outside unit. Pet hair can significantly impede your air conditioning system’s heat-transfer process. If possible, relocate your pet’s run somewhere else in your yard. Animal urine can destroy your condenser in a surprisingly short time.

Remember to schedule routine AC maintenance. Our neighborly HVAC technicians should inspect and maintain your air conditioner annually, preferably in the spring. We’ll discover and resolve any minor issues, clean its key components, and provide tips to keep your air conditioner running efficiently with pets.

Call Hey Neighbor for all your indoor air quality (IAQ) needs!

When you’re tired of excess pet hair harming your HVAC system and indoor air quality, choose Hey Neighbor Heating & Cooling for custom-tailored solutions and top-notch customer service. We offer a wide array of indoor air quality products and services to help keep pet hair and dander in your home to a minimum, including high-end air filtration, whole-house ventilation, and humidity control. We can also maintain your air conditioning system for maximum performance and efficiency. Enjoy the peace of mind that a 100% satisfaction guarantee backs everything we do! Please call us today to request indoor air quality services in Northeast Ohio.