What Can Animal Hair Do to My AC Filter?

A family pet is part of millions of families. You probably consider your dog or cat a beloved family member and want to keep them well-cared for.

Annoyingly, pet hair can adversely affect your air conditioning system. With proper maintenance, you'll help preserve steady airflow and protect the cooling equipment from harm.

How Does an AC Filter Work, and Why is It So Important?

Your air filter is a key component of the HVAC system. It captures airborne particles, such as dust, pollen and pet hair, keeping them from reaching other rooms or areas of the property. Various designs can be used effectively, including fiberglass, pleated and electrostatic. A filter’s effectiveness depends os its minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV), which ranges from 1 to 20, with higher ratings indicating better filtration.

Your filter is primarily responsible for protecting the evaporator coil, blower motor and other important parts from dirt and debris capable of damaging them. At sufficient efficiency, the air filter also improves indoor air quality by reducing particulates in the air, which could lead to allergies, asthma attacks and other respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.

How Can Pet Hair Impact an HVAC System's Air Filter?

As pets shed, their hair becomes airborne and is drawn into 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 become clogged with moisture found in the cooling system, creating a breeding ground for microbes like mold, which give off foul odors and lower indoor air quality.

Even when the filter is already in place, pet hair can still lead to problems. When return airflow reaches the main HVAC system, the filter does its job by trapping the hair and preventing it from landing on delicate cooling components. At the same time, this quickly clogs the filter up, decreasing airflow and increasing strain on the HVAC system. Without intervention, higher energy bills and more repair visits could be likely.

What About Animal Dander?

Pet dander, consisting of tiny skin flakes and saliva particles, is a common allergen that causes respiratory problems for those suffering from allergies or asthma. You need a filter with a high MERV rating 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 should try to replace it after 30 to 90 days. Take a look at the filter each month and replace it when it starts to appear clogged.
• Keep ventilation clear: Pet hair can accumulate on air registers and grilles, limiting circulation. 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.
• Keep pets well-groomed: Regular brushing and bathing is a great strategy for reducing pet hair. Make sure to handle brushing outside and sweep the area afterward to prevent the hair from getting tracked inside.
• Consistently vacuum and dust: Not all pet hair ends up in the HVAC system. A lot of it settles on surfaces or under furniture. Keep up a regular cleaning routine that includes vacuuming, sweeping, dusting and washing any pet beds.
• Don't let debris collect near the outdoor unit: Central HVAC systems need an outdoor unit mounted to a concrete slab outside your home. Clear away any accumulated debris, including pet hair, grass clippings, dead leaves and similar materials. This helps maintain consistent heat transfer for more efficient operation.
• Schedule regular maintenance: An HVAC technician should inspect and maintain your cooling system once a year, preferably in the spring. They can find and resolve any small issues, clean key components and share advice on keeping your cooling system running efficiently with pets.

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