Pets bring no shortage of joy to the lives of homeowners, but that doesn’t mean they don’t cause their own unique challenges. It’s hard to keep them from tearing up furniture or jumping excitedly on you when you walk through the door. And there’s one issue that no amount of behavior training can ever train out of your furry friend: shedding.
Pet dander has a significant effect on your home’s air quality, and since there isn’t much you can do about it, air filtration is the only way forward. That’s where AC filters shine; they’re designed to trap particles, like pet dander and other allergens, to keep your home healthy.
Does that mean pet owners should be replacing air filters more frequently, though? Let’s take a closer look at how a clean filter makes a happier home.
Why Pet Dander Is a Problem
Pet dander is a common allergen that triggers allergic reactions and symptoms in both people and animals. The particles won’t do much on their own, but over time, their buildup will make your indoor air quality significantly worse. And for those with a history of allergies or other respiratory issues like asthma, the drop in quality can be dangerous.
As your AC filters become more saturated with dander and hair, the allergens will start circulating freely throughout your home. It’s a recipe for an uncomfortable living environment, but one that’s easily avoided with the simple maintenance task of switching out your filters monthly.
How AC Filters Affect Your Home’s Air Quality
AC filters trap dust, dander, pollen, and other airborne particles to keep you and your family from breathing them in. The cleaner your filter is, the more efficiently your system will run, and the better it’ll be at trapping things as they pass through. When the filter gets clogged with dirt or hair, that’s when you’ll start to notice a shift in indoor air quality.
With that in mind, the answer to the original question is a resounding yes: Pet owners should be at least checking (if not cleaning) their AC filters more often. Most experts recommend that homeowners with pets should replace their filters monthly, as opposed to the average of three months. If you have a smart device connected to your system, it can remind you when the filter needs changing so you can stay on top of it.
AC Maintenance Is More Than Just Replacing Air Filters
AC maintenance doesn’t start and stop with replacing AC filters; homeowners with pets will likely want to call for an extra maintenance service every year as well. That’s because — even if you’re switching out your filters — your system is still working harder than those installed in homes without pets.
By taking that precaution, you’re guaranteeing that your system won’t get damaged or break down prematurely. You’ll also have an expert eye on the system to ensure that the maintenance on your end is enough to keep your home’s air quality healthy.
Complete AC Care With Complete Climate Services
You’re not alone when it comes to your AC maintenance. If you have pets that are wreaking havoc on your HVAC system, Complete Climate Services is here to help! Reach out today to learn more and schedule an appointment.