We are all familiar with the saying, “Home is where the heart is.” For many, this means where our loved ones and family are, so our hearts reside. Each member of your family has an important role- even your four-legged furry family members too! But did you know that pet fur and dander can reap adverse effects on your HVAC system? Being a pet owner comes with its share of joy, but it also comes with its fair share of responsibilities. So your experts at Huber Heights Heating & Cooling want to make sure you know the effects pet fur and dander can have on your HVAC system. It’s essential to be aware so that you can make adjustments accordingly.
Here are a few points you can ask yourself to help to protect your pet(s) and your HVAC system:
1. Should I Use a Barrier Around the Condenser to Protect It?
Your condenser is the large outdoor unit located either in your backyard or the side of your house. If you have a dog or outdoor cat and they have access to the area around the condenser, you should think about using a barrier (i.e., a picket fence or chicken wire) around it. It’s in your pet’s best interest safety-wise to not have access around the unit. In addition, if you have a particularly mischievous pet who enjoys relieving itself on objects, it could cause damage to your condenser if allowed to do so.
2. Should I Use a Barrier Around the Furnace to Protect It?
If your furnace is in an exposed area, it is also best to use a barrier around it. For example, you can use a pet gate or pen to prevent your pet from getting too close to the furnace. Doing this will keep your pet away from the pilot light, thus keeping your furry companion out of harm’s way. It’s also important to note that this area should be kept clear of dust build-up and pet fur as they are considered a fire hazard.
3. Should I Replace My Air Filters to Help with Airflow & Pet Hair?
Yes! Regularly replacing your air filter will make a world of difference to your HVAC system’s airflow. Our NATE-certified technicians suggest homeowners replace their air filters every 1-2 months. However, if you have a pet or multiple pets, it would be a good idea to check your air filters more often than that. Each home is different, but inspecting your air filters every few weeks will ensure no blockage has occurred. Pet fur and dander are known to accumulate quickly on air filters. If left unchanged, your air filters will become clogged, block airflow, and cause HVAC issues. You can prevent this simply by checking your air filters frequently and changing them as recommended!
As a homeowner, we know that you want your HVAC system to last for years to come. Therefore, it’s crucial to practice preventative maintenance and regular upkeep to achieve this. So keep in mind that regular grooming and brushing of your pet(s), consistent dusting, and frequent sweeping and vacuuming will significantly help alleviate any additional stress placed on your HVAC system from all the pet fur and dander. If you have any questions or need to book an appointment, Huber Heights Heating & Cooling would feel honored to serve you, your home, family, and pets! Call us today at (937) 226-9675, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
