Pets are a source of endless joy. However, part of owning one is cleaning up after them. Pet dander is a known allergen. Come summer, this fur can also create issues with your HVAC system. Alternatively, curious pets may damage your air conditioning unit unintentionally. The following guide looks at precautions you should take to protect your home and ensure your pet is comfortable.

An HVAC Guide for Pet Parents

1. Block Off the Condenser

Fence off the outdoor air conditioning unit if your pet spends a lot of time outside. You don’t want to chance them gnawing on wires and drainage lines because it will disrupt the system. Chewing through the condensation line, for example, could allow frost to build up on the evaporator coil, preventing the refrigerant from being able to absorb heat from the air that passes over it. This will prevent your indoor spaces from being cooled. Worse, your pet may injure itself while investigating the unit.

2. Clean & Replace Filters

An air conditioning unit’s air filter captures pet dander and other debris, so they can’t taint the indoor air quality. This filter will clog over time and must be replaced before it restricts airflow. Check yours at least once a month if you have a pet and replace it when there’s gray buildup. This way, the HVAC unit won’t have to work as hard to push air through, reducing energy waste and saving money on electricity.

3. Adjust the Thermostat

Many homeowners adjust the thermostat when they leave the house for the day to save money. However, summer heat can make your pets uncomfortable, especially thick-coated varieties like huskies. Ideally, they need an indoor temperature range of 75-78 degrees Fahrenheit to stay comfortable, which should still allow your AC to take a break. 

This is a great opportunity to upgrade to a smart thermostat. These work in concert with smartphone apps, so you can adjust the temperature remotely to ensure your pets are comfortable.

A summer HVAC inspection is the best way to keep your unit efficient, and residents of Sugar Land, TX, rely on Critical Air. This locally owned and operated HVAC contractor works with industry-leading brands and offers various services, including air conditioning unit installation and repairs. Visit their website to learn more about their services. Call (281) 468-4250 to speak with a representative.