Simple HVAC Maintenance Guide for Pet Owners 

 Many of our clients have pets, and we understand the importance of keeping your Georgia home comfortable and safe for you and your furry friends. You may not realize it, but pet hair and dander impact your home’s air quality quite significantly.  

That’s why our HVAC pros at HendrixAir have compiled a list of practical HVAC maintenance tips that can help you maintain a healthy living environment for both you and your pets. Let’s dive in!   

To ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently and keeping the air clean, it’s important to follow a simple maintenance plan. Follow these tips to ensure that your family breathes easier year-round!

Air filters play a crucial role in keeping the air in your home clean and fresh. If you have pets, it’s essential to change your air filters more frequently than you would in a home without pets to prevent pet hair, dander, and other allergens from clogging your system.  

We recommend changing your air filters every one to two months, depending on how many fluffy family members you have and how much they shed.  

When it comes to air filters, not all are created equal. If you have pets, consider upgrading to a higher-quality air filter that can capture smaller particles, including pet-related pollutants and allergens.  

Regular grooming is a great way to keep your pets healthy and your home clean. Brushing your pets regularly can help reduce shedding and prevent pet hair from clogging your air filters and ductwork.  

It’s best to bathe pets at least once a month to keep their coat in good shape and reduce the build-up of dirt and dander.   

Vacuuming your home regularly is another crucial step in keeping your HVAC system clean and well-maintained. Pet hair, dander, and other allergens accumulate on carpets, furniture, and other surfaces, so it’s essential to vacuum at least once a week.  

Be sure to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture as many pet-related pollutants and allergens as possible. 

Chances are, you have an outdoor AC unit in your yard. Dogs especially may be tempted to mark their territory on or around the unit which can cause extensive damage.  

Even if your dog or cat doesn’t urinate on the unit if they hang around in the same area or rub themselves up against the unit, their fur will be sent directly into the unit. If your outdoor unit gets clogged, it can send pet dander into your HVAC system.  

Air purifiers help capture pet-related pollutants and allergens that may be missed by your air filters, providing an additional layer of protection for you and your pets. Depending on your needs, you may benefit from a portable air purifier versus installing one in your home. A portable air purifier is best for those who are renting.  

There are many different types of air purifiers on the market, so be sure to do your research and choose one that is right for your home and your pets. Or simply give us a call for help with what may be the best option for your family.  

Regular HVAC maintenance is essential for pet owners to keep their systems running efficiently and prevents breakdowns. Excessive amounts of pet fur in your system can “choke up” your unit and cost you a higher energy bill and eventually a potentially costly repair.  

We recommend scheduling HVAC maintenance twice a year, ideally before the start of summer and winter. During these appointments, a professional HVAC technician will inspect your system, clean your ductwork, and make any necessary repairs or adjustments. 

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