If you are a pet owner, did you know that your HVAC system circulates pet dander and fur throughout your home? This results in poor IAQ within your home and can negatively impact your HVAC system. Keep reading the following information pieced together by your Clayton-Englewood Heating service professionals so you can be aware of the effects pets and their fur can have on your HVAC system’s performance.
Should You Change Your Air Filters Frequently?
The resounding answer is YES! It would be best if you changed your HVAC air filters on a regular basis. Air filters exist to capture and hold airborne particles and pollutants. So when they are doing their job correctly, they become full and need to be replaced with a fresh air filter. Typically, air filters should be changed every 1-2 months. Of course, the timeframe on which you need to change your air filters depends on your lifestyle, how many people you have in your home, as well as how many and what type of pets you own. If you are looking for a more efficient air filter, consider using a HEPA air filter. They are famous for their 99.97% success rate in filtering airborne pollutants and therefore are a great option to utilize.
Should You Clean the Air Vents & Registers?
Cleaning your vents and registers should be included in your regular dusting routine. Vents and registers can act as dust and pet hair magnets which isn’t ideal for your HVAC system. Left unchecked, dust bunnies can form, and pet hair will only contribute to making the matter worse. Your vents and registers should be kept clear of any dust or particles as they affect airflow and can cause further issues for your HVAC system.
Should You Use an Air Purifier?
Air purifiers are excellent contributors to boosting your home’s air quality. In addition, for people with family members who deal with allergies or asthma, an air purifier will help to ease discomfort caused by airborne allergens and irritants. Fortunately, there is a wide range of air purifiers on the market. So there are plenty of options for your type of need ranging from smaller tabletop models to whole-home purification systems.
Should You Have Your Ducts Cleaned?
Air ducts accumulate dust, hair, pet fur, and loose debris over time. When this occurs, this creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Not only will your family’s health and well-being be affected, but clogged ductwork also takes a toll on the efficiency of your HVAC system. So if you don’t remember the last time your ducts have been professionally cleaned, you may want to consider having this service done soon. A rule of thumb is that homeowners should have their ductwork cleaned every 3-5 years. You can call us today to check if this is a service we are offering at the moment.
Should You Use a Barrier?
Barriers help keep your pet away from your heating and cooling units and also keep them safe at the same time. Consider using a barrier for these situations:
- Your Indoor Unit- If you don’t have your furnace in an enclosed area (i.e., a closet) and it is exposed, you should consider using a pet gate or pen around the furnace. It’s essential to keep your pet away from the pilot light and keep the area free from dust particles and pet fur buildup. When dust and pet fur build up, it can be a detrimental situation, since this is classified as a fire hazard.
- Your Outdoor Unit- Next, let’s think about your outdoor unit. Not only is it important for this area to be cleared of any obstructions, but if you have a pet that likes to poke around the unit, using a barrier is a fantastic idea.
If you have been looking for local heating & cooling service professional you can trust, look no further! Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling is ready to assist with all your HVAC needs. We are a local, family-owned company you can trust and rely on. Call today at (937) 412-2911, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
