A Pet Owner’s Guide to HVAC Maintenance
By Brian Sodoma, for Service Experts
According to the American Pet Products Association’s 2024 National Pet Owner Survey, more than 82 million homes own a pet. Most of these beloved pets are dogs, cats and other furry creatures who tend to shed or spread dander in their homes. While it’s a pleasure to own a pet, you should take a few extra measures to keep your HVAC system running properly. Follow these seven tips for pet-friendly HVAC maintenance:
1. Clean or Replace Your Air Filter Regularly
The quality of your indoor air depends on the condition of your air filter because it pulls dust, dander and allergens from the air. When you have pets, you might need to change filters more often.
“It starts with knowing when to clean or replace the filter,” said Jim Hughes, Director of Field Training with Service Experts, one of the nation’s largest HVAC service and repair companies. “For example, if you have a filter that’s rated to last three months, you might want to take a look once a month. Filters get clogged more quickly with pets, especially during heavy-use seasons.”
2. Look into Upgrading Your Air Filter
You may also think about getting a higher-rated air filter. Look for the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) to know the smallest particle size your air filter will trap. For residential use, you’ll see filters rated from five to 13, with higher numbers providing better filtration. Consider at least a nine or higher to effectively filter out dander, Hughes added. Some pet owners even opt for a high-efficiency whole home ventilation and air purification system.
3. Protect Your Air Conditioning’s Condenser
The AC unit, especially the part of the system that’s outdoors, should be cleaned as part of a comprehensive HVAC tune-up. These condensers have heat exchanging coils that gather dirt and other yard debris each year. In some unfortunate situations, pets may urinate on the outdoor unit, and if they are around it often enough, fur or hair could be pulled into the system, clogging the coils.
“The acidity in pet urine can actually cause the coils to corrode and may even cause a refrigerant leak,” he said. “And if there’s a lot of hair in the condenser, it will reduce system efficiency.” If required, install a fence around the unit, but be sure not to block or restrict airflow, Hughes suggests.
4. Keep up with Your Pet’s Grooming
If you brush your pet often, less hair will enter your HVAC system. “I suggest using a vacuum brush to get rid of extra hair from their pets. This way you aren’t releasing the hair or dander you’re brushing off into the home,” Hughes added.
5. Vacuum More Often and Clean Your Return Vents
Increasing how many times you vacuum each month is an easy way to decrease the amount of hair and dander being pulled into your system. While you’re vacuuming, don’t forget to clean out what you can in the return air vents as well. The return vent system varies according to your home’s layout. But every home has return air vents and supply air vents. Return air vents pull in air and then clean and circulate it back into every room using the supply air vents, so more vacuuming is added defense against unwanted dust, pet hair and more.
6. Get an HVAC Checkup Biannually
Your HVAC system should be serviced by a professional technician two times each year for peace of mind that all components are operating properly and safely, especially if you are a pet owner. Once the HVAC specialist arrives, ask if there are any extra precautions you can take to keep your system running smoothly.
“The technician is another pair of eyes for you to assess the effects of pets on your system,” Hughes said. “A routine maintenance call is an opportunity to build an important relationship that promotes your HVAC system’s long-term health.”
Look into Professional Air Duct Cleaning
Once your air filters are clogged, pollutants and allergens can reach the duct system, causing more trouble with your home’s air quality. If you are concerned that pet hair and dander aren’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 learn more about keeping indoor air quality high as a pet owner, visit ServiceExperts.com/indoor-air-quality/ or schedule your HVAC maintenance tune-up today.
