Our pets are a constant source of affection and companionship – and sometimes a little more than that.
Fur and dander (dried skin) from your pets can have a big impact on the performance of your forced-air heating equipment* and cooling equipment (and your indoor air quality and energy bills as a result), especially during the shedding summer months.
That’s why It’s a good idea to attend to the “gifts” your four-legged friends leave behind.
Here are six tips to stay ahead of the “fur curve” in your Massachusetts home:
Stay on top of grooming – Brush and groom your pets regularly to minimize shedding.
Change air filters regularly – Clogged air filters cause your HVAC equipment to overwork, resulting in higher bills, more HVAC repairs, and less comfort. Check your HVAC filter during peak heating and cooling months – more often if someone in the house suffers from allergies. Consider installing a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter if your HVAC system will accommodate it.
Keep air vents clean – Fur, dander and dust can clog your vent registers, too – so clean them regularly with a HEPA vacuum and/or a damp microfiber cloth.
Keep your ducts clean – Fur-clogged air ducts can become a breeding ground for viruses and bacteria – often in places deep within your ductwork that you can’t see or easily clean. A professional duct cleaning will take care of those hard-to-reach spots; the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends getting one every three to five years (err on the more frequent side if you have furry pets).
Consider adding a whole house air cleaner – Installing a whole house air cleaner will ease some of the burden placed on your HVAC air filters.
Get regular, professional maintenance for all forced-air equipment – Regular HVAC maintenance is the best insurance you have for nipping efficiency problems in the bud, and for preventing small issues from turning into costly HVAC repairs and breakdowns.
Have you had your HVAC system serviced lately? Contact us today to schedule routine maintenance today!
*If you have vents, you have a forced air system; if you have baseboards or radiators, you do not.
