Pets bring joy and companionship to a family and household. Although you undoubtedly love your four-legged friends and might think they can do no wrong, pets can cause issues with your expensive HVAC system.
Whether it’s shedding fur that clogs up your HVAC system’s filter faster than usual, decreased indoor air quality due to dander, or the possibility of dogs urinating on the outdoor AC condenser, it’s essential for pet owners to be aware of things that can go wrong. Let’s review some tips that’ll help you keep your home comfortable and your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently. For any services for HVAC in Cincinnati you may need, rely on the team at JM Mechanical. After all, we’re pet owners, too.
DIY Air Filter Maintenance
Pets, especially those with fur, can contribute to heightened levels of dust, dander, and hair circulating within your home. This debris can accumulate in HVAC air filters, resulting in diminished airflow and decreased system efficiency.
To counteract this, pet owners should establish a routine of inspecting and replacing air filters regularly. Depending on the filter type and the shedding frequency of your pet, check the air filter every month, looking for clogs, dirt, and hair. Replace it every 1-2 months to maintain optimal indoor air quality.
Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Regular HVAC inspections conducted by our qualified technicians are essential for identifying and resolving any potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Pet owners should schedule yearly maintenance checks to ensure that your system is operating correctly and efficiently. During HVAC maintenance, technicians can also evaluate outdoor AC units for any damage caused by pet urine, which can lead to corrosion and electrical issues.
Protecting Outdoor HVAC Units
One of the most potentially harmful problems pet owners encounter is when dogs urinate on the outdoor AC condenser. Urine contains corrosive elements that can corrode the metal components of the condenser coil, resulting in premature failure and reduced efficiency.
To prevent this, consider installing barriers or fencing around outdoor HVAC units to limit pet access. Additionally, train pets to avoid these areas to minimize the risk of damage. The condenser is the most expensive part of an AC system so it pays to make sure your pet is leaving it alone.
Professional Cleaning of Vents and Ducts
Over time, pet hair and dander can accumulate in HVAC vents and ducts, impeding airflow and diminishing indoor air quality. To address this issue, pet owners should arrange for professional duct cleaning every 3-5 years to eliminate any buildup of dander, pet hair, dirt, dust, mold, and debris.
Indoor Air Quality Enhancement
Indoor air quality significantly impacts both the respiratory health of pets and humans. To enhance air quality, contemplate investing in a whole-house air purifier or filtration system that effectively eliminates pet dander, odors, and other airborne contaminants.
Remember, a little prevention and maintenance can go a long way in ensuring the well-being of your pets and the durability of your HVAC system.
Contact JM Mechanical Heating & Cooling today to schedule HVAC services in Cincinnati, OH.