Essential HVAC Maintenance Advice for Pet Owners

By Brian Sodoma, for Service Experts

Based on the American Pet Products Association’s 2024 National Pet Owner Survey, more than 82 million homes have one or more pets. The largest number of these cuddly family members are cats, dogs and other animals who will shed or release dander into their homes. While it’s a pleasure to have a dog or cat, you should take a few extra measures to keep your HVAC system running properly. Follow these seven tips for pet-friendly HVAC maintenance:

1. Swap Out or Clean Your Air Filter Consistently

Indoor air quality hinges on the condition of your air filter because it removes dust, dander and other pollutants from the air. When you have pets, you might need to replace it sooner.

“It starts with knowing when to clean or replace the filter,” said Jim Hughes, Director of Field Training with Service Experts, one of the nation’s largest HVAC service and repair companies. “If you, for example, have a filter that’s expected to last 90 days, you might want to consider replacing it each month. With pets, a filter gets dirty fast, particularly when your HVAC system runs most often.”

2. Consider Upgrading Your System’s Air Filter

You should also think about getting a higher-rated air filter. Find the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) to know the smallest particle size your air filter will trap. For residential use, the ideal MERV rating ranges from five to 13, with higher numbers providing better filtration. Consider at least a nine or higher to trap dander effectively, Hughes added. Some pet owners even opt for a higher-end whole home ventilation and air purification system.

3. Keep the AC’s Condenser in the Best Possible Shape

The AC unit, especially the outdoor unit, should be cleaned as part of a comprehensive HVAC tune-up. AC condensers have coils/heat exchangers that gather dirt and other yard debris throughout the year.  Unfortunately, some pets even urinate on outdoor units, and if they are frequently near the unit, fur or hair could be pulled into the system, clogging the coils. 

“The urine’s acidity might cause the coils to corrode and potentially cause a refrigerant leak,” he said. “And a lot of hair in the condenser will lower the system’s efficiency.” If necessary, place a fence or other barrier around the unit, but be sure not to block or restrict airflow, Hughes suggests. 

4. Keep up with Your Pet’s Grooming

If you brush your pet often, less hair will enter your HVAC system. “I tend to suggest pet owners use a vacuum brush to get rid of extra hair from their pets. That way you aren’t releasing the hair or dander you’re brushing off into the home,” Hughes mentioned.

5. Increase How Often You Vacuum and Clean Return Vents

Running the vacuum more often can reduce the amount of hair and dander getting into your HVAC system. While you have the vacuum out, vacuum the return air vents as well. The location of return air vents varies according to your home’s layout. Regardless, your home will always have return air vents and supply air vents. Return air vents draw in air and then filter and redistribute it back into every room using the supply air vents, so more vacuuming is an extra way to minimize unwanted dust, pet hair and more.

6. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up Twice a Year

Your HVAC system should be serviced by a professional technician two times each year to make sure everything is working properly, and this is doubly so for homes with pets. When the technician comes to your home, it’s a good idea to ask them about additional steps you can take to keep your system running smoothly.

“Your technician is an additional Expert to help you to assess the effects of pets on your system,” Hughes said. “A tune-up is a chance to establish a beneficial relationship that promotes your HVAC system’s long-term health.” 

Consider Air Duct Cleaning 

When your HVAC system’s air filters become clogged, contaminants and allergens can reach the duct system, causing more long-term air quality issues. If you are concerned that pet hair and dander aren’t under control, you might want to consider professional duct cleaning services.

“I know some pet owners who have their duct work cleaned every couple of years. It can be well worth the investment whenever pets are involved,” Hughes said. 

To get all the details about keeping indoor air quality high as a pet owner, visit ServiceExperts.com/indoor-air-quality/ or schedule your HVAC maintenance call today.