5 Tips to Keep Your Air Conditioner Clean with Pets

Maintaining an air conditioner can be challenging for any homeowner, but pet owners face unique difficulties. Pet hair, dander, and dirt can quickly clog filters and reduce how well your air conditioner works. Keeping it clean is not just about the unit’s lifespan but also about ensuring a healthy environment for your pets and family. 10 to 20% of people suffer from dog and cat allergies that can be exacerbated by poor air quality due to unclean HVAC units. In this blog post, we’ll explore five essential tips for keeping your air conditioner in top shape and indoor air clean when you have furry friends at home.

1. Regular Grooming for Your Pets

The first step to keeping your air conditioner clean is to reduce the amount of pet hair and dander your pets shed. Regular grooming, whether at home or with a professional groomer, can significantly reduce the build-up of pet hair in your home. By brushing or bathing your pets regularly, you’ll also be removing excess oils and dirt from their fur, which can contribute to clogged filters in your air conditioner.

Moreover, regular grooming not only keeps your pets’ coats healthy but also reduces the allergens they produce. This means less airborne particles that can enter your air conditioner and affect its efficiency. So, make sure to add regular grooming to your pet care routine to keep your air conditioner clean.

2. Vacuum and Dust Often

Pet hair is not only found on your pets but also settles on furniture, carpets, and other surfaces around the house. Regular vacuuming and dusting can significantly reduce the amount of pet hair that enters your air conditioner. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to remove pet hair and dander from fabric surfaces.

Moreover, make it a habit to regularly clean or change the filters in your vacuum to prevent clogging and ensure maximum efficiency. Remember to also dust surfaces, especially around vents and registers, that can collect pet hair and dander.

3. Cover Vents and Registers

Pets like to explore so they may try to seek refuge in vents or registers during hot summer days. Unfortunately, this can block airflow and cause your air conditioner to work harder than necessary. To prevent this from happening, cover your vents and registers with mesh screens or plastic covers. This will not only keep your pets safe but also help maintain the cleanliness of your air conditioner.

4. Change Air Filters Regularly

Air filters are an essential component of your air conditioner, and they need to be changed regularly, especially when you have pets at home. Pet hair and dander can clog filters quickly, reducing the efficiency of your air conditioner and affecting the quality of your indoor air. Make sure to check your filters at least once a month and change them if they appear dirty or clogged.

Additionally, consider investing in high-quality HEPA filters that are designed specifically for pet owners. These can trap smaller particles like pet dander and prevent them from entering your air conditioner.

5. Schedule Professional Maintenance

While regular cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in keeping your air conditioner clean, it’s also essential to schedule professional maintenance at least once a year. A skilled technician can thoroughly inspect and clean your unit, including its coils, ducts, and other components that may be affected by pet hair and dander.

Professional maintenance not only ensures the efficiency of your air conditioner but also helps detect any potential issues before they become major problems. So, make sure to include annual professional maintenance as part of your home maintenance routine.

Keep Your AC Clean and Your Pets Happy!

Having pets at home doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the cleanliness of your air conditioner. By following these five tips, you can reduce the impact of pet hair on your unit and ensure a healthy environment for your pets and family.

If you’re looking for expert advice or professional services to maintain your air conditioning system, Naughton Mechanical LLC is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your indoor air quality needs.