If you own a pet, you’ll need to take a few additional steps to keep your HVAC system in good condition. This is because fur and dander can easily infiltrate the system, causing blockages and other problems that force your heating and cooling units to work harder. Here are a few tips to ensure your HVAC system runs optimally even with your furry friends around.
1. Replace the filter often
The filter in a furnace or air conditioner is designed to prevent dust and other particles from clogging up the appliance. Over time, however, an accumulation of fur and dander can prevent air from properly circulating through your HVAC system. This forces the fan to work harder and reduces the efficiency of the unit.
As a general rule, you should clean or replace your HVAC filters every three months. However, it’s best to check the filters for clogs about once a month if you have pets.
2. Invest in an air purifier
In addition to regularly swapping out the filters in your heating and cooling systems, you may want to consider buying an air purifier. In addition to improving the indoor air quality of your home, this device can remove a significant amount of particles from the air before they get near your HVAC system.
3. Clean the ducts regularly
Similar to the filters in your furnace or air conditioner, fur and dander can accumulate in your home’s ventilation system. Without proper upkeep, this can lead to blockages and inefficient air circulation. To help keep your ducts clean, vacuum the floor vents every few weeks. Remove the grate, and use the hose attachment to reach as far into the vent as possible.
While regular vacuuming can reduce the risk of blockages, you’ll need to have your ducts professionally cleaned every few years to keep your HVAC system running optimally. In addition to this deep clean, an HVAC technician will inspect the system and make any necessary repairs.
4. Keep pets away from the unit
In addition to the problems caused by fur buildup, your HVAC system can be severely damaged if your pet chews on wires or urinates on the unit. It’s also hazardous for your pet to get too close to a furnace or air conditioner. For these reasons, it’s best to keep your heating system behind closed doors or blocked off by a gate. Similarly, you should install a fence around an outdoor air conditioning unit to keep animals away. Just make sure the barrier is about a metre away from the vents so that air can properly circulate.
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