A Pet Owner’s Guide to HVAC Maintenance

By Brian Sodoma, for Service Experts

According to the American Pet Products Association’s 2024 National Pet Owner Survey, more than 82 million homes own a pet. The largest number of these cuddly family members are dogs, cats and other furry friends who can shed or produce dander in their homes. While it’s a pleasure to own a pet, you’ll want to take a few extra steps to maintain your HVAC system. Start with these seven tips for pet-friendly HVAC maintenance:

1. Clean or Replace Your Air Filter Regularly

Indoor air quality hinges on the working condition of your air filter because it filters dust, dander and many other airborne particles from the air. When you have pets, you might have to replace filters more frequently.

“It starts with checking the filter more regularly,” said Jim Hughes, Director of Field Training with Service Experts, one of the nation’s largest HVAC service and repair companies. “For instance, if you 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 during shedding seasons.”

2. Think About Upgrading Your Air Filter

You may also look into getting a better air filter. Find the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) to know the smallest size of particles the filter can catch. For residential use, you’ll see filters rated from five to 13, with higher numbers providing better filtration. Consider at least a nine or higher to trap dander effectively, Hughes added. A few pet owners also choose a higher-end whole home ventilation and air purification system.

3. Don’t Let the Air Conditioner’s Condenser Break Down

The AC unit, especially the part of the system that’s outdoors, should be cleaned as part of a comprehensive HVAC tune-up. These systems have heat exchanging coils that gather dirt and other yard debris throughout the year.  In some unfortunate situations, some pets even urinate on outdoor units, and if they are around it often enough, their fur may get pulled into the coils and clog them up. 

“The acid from pet urine will cause the coils to corrode and may even cause a refrigerant leak,” he said. “And too much hair in the condenser will reduce system efficiency.” If needed, add a small fence around your outdoor unit, but be sure not to block or restrict airflow, Hughes suggests. 

4. Groom Your Pet Regularly

When you brush your pet often enough, less hair will enter your HVAC system. “I suggest using a vacuum brush to remove excess hair from their pets. That way you avoid spreading the hair and dander you’re brushing off into the home,” Hughes added.

5. Increase How Often You Vacuum and Clean Return Vents

Vacuuming more often will decrease the amount of hair and dander making its way into your system. While you’re already vacuuming, vacuum the return air vents as well. The location of return air vents varies according to your home’s layout. But every home has return air vents and supply air vents. Return air vents pull in air and then filter and recirculate it across your home using the supply air vents, so more vacuuming is another layer of protection against unwanted dust, dander and hair.

6. Get an HVAC Checkup Biannually

Your HVAC system should be serviced by a professional technician twice a year to make sure everything is working properly, especially if you are a pet owner. As the technician comes to your home, it’s a good idea to ask them about any extra precautions you can take to keep your system running smoothly.

“Your technician is another pair of eyes for you to see how your pets are impacting the system,” Hughes said. “A routine maintenance call is a chance to build an important relationship that supports the long-term health of your HVAC system.” 

Look into Professional Air Duct Cleaning 

Once your air filters are clogged, pollutants and allergens can make it to the ventilation system, causing more long-term air quality issues. If pet hair and dander still isn’t under control, you might want to consider professional duct cleaning services.

“I know some pet owners who have their duct work cleaned every few years. Duct cleaning can be a longer-lasting solution for pet owners,” Hughes said. 

To find out more about keeping indoor air quality high as a pet owner, go to ServiceExperts.com/indoor-air-quality/ or request a professional HVAC tune-up today.