How your HVAC unit can help with your pets and allergies
Many of us are very familiar with the responsibility involved in owning a home. Bringing pets into the home adds an element of joy and entertainment and also comes with its own list of chores. Combine pets and a home and you’ve doubled that responsibility. One critical component of your home directly impacted by the presence of pets is your HVAC system. All that fur from cats and dogs (or other critters) comes with allergens and shedding fur can cause trouble with your heating and cooling unit. Let’s look at some ways to leverage your HVAC system to alleviate allergies, and related maintenance ideas to keep things running clean and efficiently.
How to use your HVAC system to battle allergies
If you have a pet that sheds, your home’s air filters will pick up a lot of that furry debris. Diligent grooming, of course, goes a long way to reduce the effects but an HVAC filter will attract pet hair regardless and a blocked filter limits air flow and strains the system. Check your filters and clean or replace them no less than once a month and always use high quality filters.
Keep the air ducts clean
Pet dander, dust, and other airborne particles inevitably find their way inside ductwork. The HVAC system then circulates those allergens all over the house. In addition, clogged ducts restrict conditioned air flow and this can initiate allergy symptoms or asthma attacks. Clean ducts keep allergen presence low.
Vacuum the vents
Vent vacuuming is enormously effective in reducing allergens. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter or one designed to trap and remove pet dander and hair. Vacuum every vent in the house once a week.
Opt for an air purifier
For those particularly worried about their home’s air quality, an air purifier could be the solution. Consistent exposure to pollen, dust, dander, and other airborne particles can cause long-term allergies and other health issues. An air purifier, along with a clean pet and clean house, helps keep indoor air breathable and safe while keeping your HVAC system running smoothly.
HVAC maintenance tips
Pet owners must pay extra attention to their heating and cooling system to ensure it continues to operate efficiently and doesn’t spread allergens around the house. An HVAC unit clogged with pet hair is also prone to increased energy consumption and potential failure. How to keep the air clean and flowing?
- Upgrade the unit’s filter to one with a high MERV rating (minimum efficiency reporting value). These filters sift out airborne pollutants and contaminants.
- Seal the ducts. Pet hair and dander can find its way into ducts so be sure they are clean and leaks are sealed.
If you think there might be a problem with your HVAC system ducting, call the experts at Rowland Air for Air duct testing, maintenance and repair in Santa Clarita, Antelope Valley, or the San Fernando Valley.