According to the American Pet Products Association’s National Pet Owners Survey, 68% of American households own pets, with cats and dogs being the most popular. Pets aren’t just animals; they’re part of the family. As such, when maintaining your HVAC system this spring, be sure to provide your pets with clean air to breathe and a comfortable space in which to live.
In this post, Dittmer Air and Heat shares some HVAC tips for pet owners that will improve indoor air quality (IAQ).
Install an air purification system. Installing an air purification system is a smart choice for households with pets. Air purifiers play a major role in removing harmful airborne contaminants, including dust particles, mold, pollen, kitchen odors and especially pet odors and dander. Pet dander, in particular, can cause itchy eyes and a runny nose, and can be potentially harmful to those with medical conditions if not removed from the indoor air. Fortunately, an air purifier will help you and your pets breathe cleaner air.
Clean your air filters and air ducts. To keep your HVAC system in great shape, you must clean or change your air filters every 30 to 60 days. Clean air filters not only extend the service life of your system, but also improve the quality of the indoor air. Be sure to have your air ducts cleaned as well. This is because pet dander can get trapped in the air ducts and recirculate around the house as the system operates. Take note that the average home requires duct cleaning every three to five years.
Keep your carpets clean. Carpets can trap all kinds of dirt and debris, including pet dander. When the carpet is walked on, pet dander can get stirred up and recirculate throughout your house. For this reason, you need to clean your carpet regularly. If you’re looking for a quality vacuum to remove as much debris as possible, consider one with a HEPA filter.
Take your pet to the salon. Treat your furry friend to a day at the salon! Regular grooming helps minimize the hair and dander that your dog or cat may shed indoors. If you plan to groom your pets on your own, be sure to brush your pet outside if the weather is good. When doing it indoors, don’t forget to vacuum and clean the area as soon as you’re finished.
For all your indoor air quality needs, turn to Dittmer Air and Heat. We’ll perform an in-house diagnostic test to uncover the best solution to achieve a healthy IAQ. Our NATE-certified technicians have in-depth knowledge of a wide range of air quality systems that will help promote a healthy indoor environment. To learn more, call (321) 637-0170 or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment.