What Can Animal Hair Do to My AC Filter?

Pets can be found in millions of homes. You probably consider your dog or cat a beloved family member and 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. It captures airborne particles, such as dust, pollen and pet hair, preventing these contaminants from circulating in your home. There is lots of variety in the materials they use to accomplish this, including fiberglass, pleated and electrostatic. A filter’s effectiveness depends on its minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV), which ranges from 1 to 20, with higher ratings indicating better filtration.

Your filter is primarily responsible for protecting the evaporator coil, blower motor and other delicate hardware from dirt and debris that could lead to problems. An efficient enough filter also improves indoor air quality by minimizing particulate matter, which can cause allergies, asthma attacks and similar conditions.

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

While animals are shedding, their hair becomes airborne and is drawn 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, reducing their efficiency and life span. 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.

Even when the filter is already in place, pet hair isn’t harmless. When return airflow reaches the main HVAC system, the filter traps the hair and prevents it from landing on delicate cooling components. However, this clogs the filter more quickly than usual, putting extra strain on the HVAC system. Without intervention, you may experience higher energy bills and more frequent breakdowns.

What About Animal Dander?

Pet dander, consisting of small skin flakes and saliva particles, commonly exacerbates respiratory problems for those suffering from allergies or asthma. You may benefit from a higher efficiency filter to ensure it can 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:

• Stick to a regular schedule when cleaning or replacing the filter: Depending on the type of filter and how many pets you have, you should try to replace it after 30 to 90 days. Take a look at the filter each 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. Clean these with 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 is a great strategy for reducing pet hair. Make sure to handle brushing outside and sweep the area after you’ve finished to keep any hair from getting back inside.
• Consistently vacuum and dust: Not all pet hair ends up in the HVAC system. A lot of it settles on surfaces or in corners. Keep up a regular cleaning routine that includes vacuuming, sweeping, dusting and laundering your pet’s bedding.
• Keep the area around the outdoor unit clear: Central air conditioners feature an outdoor unit secured to a concrete slab somewhere along an exterior wall of the home. Clear away any accumulated debris, like pet hair, grass clippings, dead leaves, and other objects. This helps maintain consistent heat transfer for more efficient operation.
• Don’t ignore preventive maintenance: Ideally, your local HVAC professional will inspect and maintain the air conditioner annually, preferably in the spring. This professional can find and resolve any small issues, keep internal components clean and provide recommendations about how to keep your air conditioner running efficiently with pets.

Get in Touch with for Indoor Air Quality Services

If you’re concerned about how your pets are affecting your HVAC system and indoor air quality, look to for personalized recommendations on the best solution. We can direct you to the right indoor air quality products best suited for combating pet hair and dander, such as advanced air filtration, whole-house ventilation and air duct cleaning. We’ll do whatever it takes to keep getting the most from your air conditioning. You can rest easy with the knowledge that everything we do is backed by a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee! To request indoor air quality services in Fort Lauderdale, please contact today.