Pet owners know that cats and dogs leave a mark wherever they go. Often, however, it’s the wear and tear you can't see that's the most troublesome. For example, HVAC contractors encourage pet owners to schedule service more frequently because of the impact animals can have on the inner workings of a home’s heating and cooling system. If you have cats or dogs, here’s what you should know about maintaining your HVAC system. 

How Can Animals Affect the HVAC System?

Animal fur, hair, and dander can clog your system’s filters, thereby inhibiting ventilation and forcing the equipment to work a lot harder than necessary. Any dirt and debris that pets track into the house can also get sucked up by the system’s intake. Animals also pose a risk to your HVAC system when they decide to mark their territory. Both indoor vents and outdoor condensers are prime targets for pets who want to claim their space, so blocking them off in some way is essential. Put a little fence around the outdoor unit, and arrange furniture around the vents—without cutting off their airflow—so animals can’t access them. 

How Can You Prevent Problems?

Thankfully, living with pets doesn’t mean sacrificing your family’s comfort. There are ways to mitigate the effects that furry friends have on your HVAC system. For example, brushing and bathing them per their breed’s recommendations will reduce the loose fur, hair, and dander that accumulate in your home. Sweeping and vacuuming regularly will contribute to these efforts. Investing in an air purifier can also prevent contaminants from clogging the system. Finally, HVAC contractors suggest changing your system’s filters often; whereas the average homeowner may need to change the filters every 60 to 90 days, families with pets might have to do so every 30 days to ensure optimal efficiency. 

If you have pets in the home, turn to Pointon Heating & Air Conditioning for all of your maintenance needs. With locations in Baraboo and Portage, WI, this HVAC contractor provides a broad range of services for both residential and commercial clients. Their expert technicians have more than 200 years of combined experience in the field and can do everything from air conditioning installations to furnace repairs. To speak with an HVAC contractor, call (608) 356-4177 in Baraboo or (608) 745-4616 in Portage. Visit their website to learn more about their services.