Pets are a wonderful companion and they themselves feel like another part of the family. Many of us have our pets inside the house and commonly you’re going to see pet hair around. Pet hair can have an effect on your HVAC system without us even knowing. We’re not saying to get rid of your pets inside your home at all to fix the problem, but it’s important to know how animal hair can affect your HVAC system and what steps to do to prevent it from breaking down.
Effects of Pet Hair on HVAC System
We typically see fur from our pets on the floor, furniture, or floating in the air. With pet hair in the air, it can get into both the ventilation and filter which will clog it. Having a clogged filter can lead to poor airflow and have your HVAC system work harder. It’ll suck the air through the clogged filters leading the fans and motors to get overworked and break down. If you don’t change your filters and replace it with a clean one, it can lead to your system needing repairs more often and lead to a breakdown.
Another thing that can get into your HVAC system is pet dander, which is something we can’t see. When pets shed their fur, dander clings to the strands which can trigger allergic symptoms. Many people with allergies are also allergic to dander and it can trigger sneezing, watery eyes and coughing. Whenever your HVAC system is being used the dander will go into the system and blow into your home continuously, which will trigger your allergies constantly.
How to Manage Pet Hair and Dander
1. Regular Baths and Brushing
One way to manage pet hair and dander getting into your HVAC system is giving your pets regular baths and brushing their fur. It will reduce shedding and ensure your HVAC system will be working efficiently. Giving them a bath will have the hair and dander stay inside the tub and not get into the air. Brushing their coat, especially if they shed a lot, will have the hair trapped in the brush and not go airborne. Make sure you clean your grooming brush so you can get rid of any excess pet hair and dander left over.
2. Vacuuming Regularly
Regular cleanings and vacuuming can ensure that all the pet hair and dander that can get stuck in the carpets, furniture, rugs and more will get removed. There will be less hair and dander in the air and less will get into your vents and air filter to get clogged up. Your HVAC system won’t run into any issues and it can reduce any allergy symptoms you may have.
3. Change Your Filter
Typically it’s recommended to change your filter every 90 days, or when the seasons change. If you have pets in your home it’s important to change your filter every 30 to 60 days since it can get clogged up faster. This can seem like a tedious task, but it’s inexpensive to change it and can ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. The air filter will get clogged up with not just dust and debris, but with pet hair and it can put a strain on your HVAC system.
Understanding and following these helpful tips will keep your HVAC system working efficiently and keeping everyone in your home safe and healthy. If you need help with any HVAC issues, our professional team at Omni Air HVAC can do the job. We take pride in the work we do with all things HVAC and ensure we can get the job done as efficiently as possible.