As most pet owners know, pets naturally shed dander and hair. Although this may seem relatively unobtrusive, if it is left unattended, it could compromise the air quality in your home. Pet dander has the tendency to clog ducts and air filters, increasing energy costs as efficiency is decreased. So, how do you know if your pet is affecting your air quality?
The Potential Dangers of Pet Dander and Hair?
The term pet dander is used to describe the detritus produced by furry pets. Dander is mostly composed of small skin flecks that have been shed. Unfortunately, this small amounts of skin can contain allergens and have the potential to become a bacterial and viral breeding ground. Pet dander is a common trigger for sensitive people, who can suffer a mild to severe allergic reaction.
Generally, pet hair does not trigger allergy problems in humans. It can be problematic for air conditioning systems. When pet hair and dander enters air conditioning systems, it can clog ventilation fan motors, vents and air filters inside the unit. This accumulation of debris reduces the airflow, compromising performance and increasing energy consumption. The air conditioning system will be forced to work harder to maintain your preferred comfort level.
Reducing the Risk:
The best way to reduce the risk of pets impacting your air quality is to regular cleaning. You can minimize the amount of pet dander in your home by frequently grooming and brushing your pet. This reduces the accumulation of dander on the skin and allows you some control over when and where dander is shed. This action will make clean up easier and enable you to dispose of the dander and hair in the trash, rather than allowing it to become airborne. There are also certain types of pet shampoo and conditioner that help to minimize shedding.
You should also clean your pet’s bedding and areas where they prefer to rest at least every week. Washable covers can make this process easier or you can use throw covers on furniture to make regular cleaning quicker. You should also vacuum the areas near the air ducts and vents frequently to prevent hair and dander accumulating.
Keeping Your Air Ducts Clean:
It is almost impossible to ensure that your air ducts are thoroughly clean at all times. Fortunately, air conditioning manufacturers appreciate this and utilize air filters throughout the system. These filters are designed to collect dander, hair, dust and other particulate matter. The filter holds these particles to stop them becoming airborne. Therefore, it is important that you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for changing or cleaning your air filters. Typically, filters should be changed every three months, but if you have pets, your filters may need to be changed more frequently. You should also consider having your system checked at least once a year. A trained technician will be able to assess your system and determine if the ductwork requires professional cleaning.
Pets are an enjoyable addition to your family, but they can contribute to a drop in your air quality. Fortunately, once you are aware of the potential dangers of pet dander, you can take proactive action to mitigate this and keep your air clean and fresh.