What Can Animal Hair Do to My AC Filter?

Pets are an important part of many people’s lives. 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?

Air filters are one of the most important parts of any forced-air HVAC system. The filter is the primary solution to capture airborne particles, 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. A filter’s effectiveness depends on its minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV), which ranges from 1 to 20, with higher ratings indicating better filtration.

An air filter’s key purpose is the protection of the evaporator coil, blower motor and other delicate hardware from dirt and debris that could lead to problems. At sufficient efficiency, the air filter also improves indoor air quality by keeping particles out of your indoor air, which often contribute to allergies, asthma attacks and other respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.

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

As pets shed, their hair becomes airborne and may gradually reach 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 encourage clogs if it interacts with the moisture inside your cooling, creating a breeding ground for mold and bacteria that can generate 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 arrives at the HVAC system, the filter traps the hair and prevents it from landing on sensitive cooling components. At the same time, this quickly clogs the filter up, putting extra strain on the HVAC system. Without maintenance, higher energy bills and more repair visits could be likely.

What About Animal Dander?

Pet dander, which consists of tiny skin flakes and saliva particles, is a common cause of 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

Maintaining an efficient, properly functioning air conditioner is certainly possible, 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 might need to replace it every 30 to 90 days. Check it every month and replace it when a clog appears.

• • Keep ventilation clear: Pet hair can accumulate on air registers and grilles, reducing airflow. 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 reduces the hair and dander your pets generate. 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. Proper cleaning should include vacuuming, sweeping, dusting and washing any pet beds.

• • Clear the area around the outdoor unit: Central air conditioning systems come with an outdoor unit fixed to a concrete slab outside your home. Keep the area around this unit free of debris, such as pet hair, grass clippings, dead leaves, and other forms of yard waste. This ensures effective heat transfer for more efficient operation.

• • Don’t ignore preventive maintenance: For best results, have a trusted HVAC technician inspect and maintain your cooling system once a year, preferably in the spring. They’ll know how to find and resolve any small issues, keep internal components clean and share advice on keeping 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, consider for tailored solutions and top-notch customer service. We sell and service many quality indoor air quality products designed to minimize pet hair and dander, including high-end air filtration, whole-house ventilation and air duct cleaning. We’ll do our best to maintain your HVAC system’s performance and energy efficiency. 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 North America, please contact today.