Whether perched on shelves or drinking out of toilets, pets can create their own comfort. But when colder temperatures arrive, animals often need help from their owners. Fortunately, HVAC systems can play a major role in protecting your pets from the dangers of winter. To help you — and your furry friends — stay healthy this season, here are a few ways to adjust your heater for peak comfort.

Winter HVAC Tips for Pet Owners

Don’t Underestimate the Cold

While shifts in temperature may be natural, they can impair an animal’s health. When temps start to drop, keep cats and dogs indoors — or provide them with a warm shelter. Cats and dogs are most comfortable at indoor temperatures of 60 °F or higher. If you’re keeping your heater off, make sure they have a blanketed bed area to stay warm. And if you’re leaving your home for an extended period, set your thermostat so the heater automatically turns on if it gets too cold.

Assess Air Quality

With windows closed and more people staying inside, indoor air quality tends to decline during winter months. As indoor pollutants increase, animals can experience a wide range of allergy symptoms, including sneezing and breathing problems. If left unaddressed, these symptoms can contribute to more serious pet health conditions.

To lower the risk of allergies, replace all air filters. Not only will this allow for greater air purification, but it will also help your heater run more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.

Defend Against Dryness

When the heater is running, it’s not uncommon for the air to become dry. Just as with humans, lack of moisture in the air can lead to a variety of respiratory and skin health issues in pets — including kennel cough. 

To bring moisture back into your home, have a whole-home humidification system installed as part of your HVAC system or invest in a separate humidifier. If you opt for the latter option, keep the appliance in the room where your animals sleep or spend most of their time.

Whether you want to keep your air clean or your home warm, it’s essential that your HVAC system is in working order. To avoid repair emergencies, Bates Mechanical Inc. in Freedom, IN, offers expansive preventive maintenance services to ensure your heater is equipped to keep you — and your pets — comfortable all winter long. Well-versed in most heating and cooling systems, this HVAC contractor can also help upgrade your current appliances to improve efficiency, as well as comfort. Learn more about these services online or call (812) 829-3156 to schedule an appointment.