What Can Animal Hair Do to My AC Filter?

Pets can be found in millions of homes. In fact, pets are usually considered part of the family, and we want to have them around for many years-->

How Does an AC Filter Work, and Why is It So Important?

Your air filter is a key component of the HVAC system. Your air filter captures airborne contaminants, such as dust, pollen and pet hair, preventing these contaminants from circulating in your home. AC filters come in many different versions, including fiberglass, pleated and electrostatic. Your filter’s effectiveness can be illustrated with its minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV), which is rated on a scale from 1 to 20, with higher ratings indicating better filtration.

The primary purpose of an AC filter is to protect the evaporator coil, blower motor and other delicate hardware from dirt and debris capable of damaging them. At sufficient efficiency, the air filter also improves indoor air quality by keeping particles out of your indoor air, which can cause allergies, asthma attacks and other breathing problems.

How Does Pet Hair Affect the Air Filter of My HVAC System?

While animals are shedding, their hair becomes airborne and can eventually get into the HVAC system through the return air ducts. Without a filter installed, pet hair collects inside the evaporator coil, blower motor, fan blades and other components, slowing them down and reducing efficiency. Hair can also become clogged with moisture found in the cooling system, creating a breeding ground for microorganisms, which can produce foul odors and lower indoor air quality.

But even if you have an air filter installed, pet hair can still lead to problems. When return airflow reaches the main HVAC system, the filter traps the hair and prevents it from landing on vulnerable cooling components. That being said, eventually the filter will clog, decreasing airflow and increasing strain on the HVAC system. Without exchanging or cleaning the filter, high energy bills and frequent breakdowns may be right behind.

What About Animal Dander?

Pet dander, which consists of small skin flakes and saliva particles, is a common allergen that causes respiratory problems in people with allergies or asthma. Filters with higher MERV ratings are more likely to effectively capture and remove dander, which is much smaller than pet hair.

How to Care for Your AC System and Filter with Pets

Fortunately, it isn’t hard to protect the efficiency of your AC, even with pets living in your home. Here’s how:

• • Change the filter regularly: Depending on the type of filter and how many pets you have, you should try to replace it after 30 to 90 days. Check it every month and replace it when a clog appears.

• • Clean your air vents and ductwork: Pet hair gradually piles up against the air registers and grilles, preventing proper ventilation. Trying cleaning these using the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner as often as needed. Then, hire a professional to remove built-up pet hair, dander and dust inside your ductwork every few years.

• • Bathe or brush away excess pet hair: Regular brushing and bathing minimizes the hair your pet leaves behind. Brush your pets outside when possible and sweep the area when you’re done to stop hair from just drifting back inside.

• • Consistently vacuum and dust: While it affects your HVAC system, pet hair can be found all throughout your home. A lot of it settles on surfaces or under furniture. Keep up a regular cleaning routine that includes vacuuming, sweeping, dusting and laundering your pet’s bedding.

• • Don’t let debris collect near the outdoor unit: Central air conditioners feature an outdoor unit secured to a concrete slab outside your home. Clear away any accumulated debris, such as pet hair, grass clippings, dead leaves, and other forms of yard waste. This encourages normal heat transfer for more efficient operation.

• • Keep up with routine AC maintenance: For best results, have a trusted HVAC technician inspect and maintain your cooling system once a year, preferably in the spring. They can identify and fix small issues, clean key components and offer tips to keep your air conditioner running efficiently with pets.

Call for Indoor Air Quality Services

If you want to minimize the impact your pets have on your HVAC system and indoor air quality, choose for personalized recommendations on the best solution. We can direct you to the right indoor air quality products designed to minimize pet hair and dander, such as advanced air filtration, whole-house ventilation and air duct cleaning. We can also maintain your HVAC system for maximum performance and efficiency. Rest assured that everything we do is backed by a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee! To request indoor air quality services in North America, please contact today.