If you own a pet, you consider them part of the family. However, without the proper precautions, a build-up of their fur and dander can have a detrimental effect on your HVAC system. Thankfully, all it takes is a few simple techniques, such as duct cleaning, to maintain functionality and improve efficiency. Consider the following to determine where best to start.

How Pets Can Affect Your HVAC System

1. Dirty Filters

Dander is the tiny flakes of dry skin that eventually become airborne. As they move through the system, they will collect along the surface of the filter. If the material isn’t made to handle large particles, then it could quickly reach capacity and reduce indoor air quality.

Avoid frequent changes by upgrading to a heavy-duty filter. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters pick up even the smallest of particles. You should only have to check it every six months to determine the need for replacement.

2. Clogged Vents

Loose hair tends to collect around the edges of the room, getting caught in the corners and producing large fur balls. Systems that have vents along the floor might experience some difficulty as the strands catch in the grates and block the openings.

Cleaning the floors at the end of the day is the easiest way to combat this issue. Sweep up the large bits of hair and run a vacuum over the area to pick up any remaining particles.

3. Interior Buildup

Any debris that gets past the filter and through the vents might accumulate in the ductwork, limiting airflow and reducing efficiency. Rather than settling for frequent repairs, keep up with routine duct cleaning. The HVAC technicians will wipe down the system’s interior and provide the necessary lubrication to maintain full functionality. Duct cleaning should be performed every three to five years, depending on the number of pets that are in the home.

Ensure your HVAC system receives the proper level of care by working with Steve Hester & Sons of Ward, AR. They’re a family-owned and –operated company that has been in the heating and cooling business since 1992. They utilize state-of-the-art duct cleaning equipment and work with a variety of systems. Their technicians are available on a 24/7 basis and maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau®. Call (501) 941-5119 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for a full list of services.