Nothing makes a home feel more complete than having a furry friend wandering around. However, pets can negatively affect your HVAC system in a variety of ways. From an abundance of fur to physical damage from curious paws, pets can put your HVAC unit at risk. Read on to learn how pets can affect your HVAC system and what you can do about it.
Fur and Dander Buildup
It’s no secret that pets shed fur and dander every day. These contaminants can circulate in the air when your HVAC unit is running. The hair and dander that goes through the HVAC system is caught by its filter. While your unit is designed to handle this, you have to make sure the filter doesn’t get clogged.
If an air filter becomes clogged with pet hair and dander, it affects the quality of the airflow and even forces your HVAC unit to work more than it has to. Overworked HVAC systems cost more to operate and can negatively impact your indoor air quality.
Aim to clean or replace your air filter every 30 to 90 days, depending on its design. You can ask one of our HVAC technicians for personal advice based on your equipment.
Urine and Odors
Every pet owner knows their beloved animals can have an accident here and there, but if your pet urinates on the outdoor condenser unit, it could cause serious damage. Furthermore, pet odors can permeate filters and lead to lingering smells in the house that are unpleasant.
Damage to the External Unit
Pets, typically dogs, love digging, but if they do it near your HVAC unit, it can damage your equipment. For example, the dirt that flies up as your pet digs can block the condenser, which impacts airflow. Digging can also cause the foundation to become uneven. When this occurs, it causes the system to tilt and put unnecessary strain on the compressor. This is somewhat rare, but a curious pet may scratch or even chew the wires outside.
Not only will this negatively affect your HVAC system, but it’s also a serious safety hazard to your pet. The best way to handle this is to keep your pet away from the unit, such as by installing a high-quality fence around the system.
Pets always brighten up your day, but your HVAC system may be at risk without proper supervision. If you need HVAC maintenance in Montgomery, AL, contact the team at Alabama Home Pros. We’ll make sure your HVAC unit is as good as new.