Living with pets has a number of advantages, and many homeowners are happy to open their homes to their furry friends. What many of us do not realize, however, is just how our pets can affect the indoor air quality of our home. From your pet’s hair to its dander, there are quite a few ways it can negatively impact the indoor air quality of your home. Fortunately, there is no cause for panic, as there are many ways in which you can combat these would-be air quality detractors.
If you would like to learn more about influences on indoor air quality or have any other heating & air conditioning needs, give Galmiche & Sons a call, today. In the greater St. Louis area, we can be reached by phone at 314-993-1110.
Pets and the Quality of Indoor Air
Most people assume that the only way pets affect indoor air quality is through allergies. While it is true that an average of 10% of Americans have a pet allergy, pets can affect the quality of indoor air by doing more than causing an allergic reaction.
Regardless of whether or not you have a pet allergy, pet dander can have negative effects on the indoor air quality. Pet dander, which is similar to human dandruff, collects easily on hard surfaces and is enough to potentially cause respiratory problems. This is made worse when your air conditioner picks up the dander and spreads it back through your house.
Additionally, most of our pets shed a lot of hair, especially when they spend most of the day indoors. As a result, your HVAC system suffers. The hairs and dander from our pets can cause clogging of air filters, air vents, and ducts.
So, What Should You Do?
The good news is that there is a way for you to ensure the quality of indoor air in your home is not compromised, so that you and your fury family members can continue to live in harmony. Here are a few tips:
- Purchase specialized HEPA air filters – HEPA filters are designed to filter out 99.97% of microparticles, including pet dander!
- Install an air purifier – In addition to using higher performance filters, you may also want to consider having an air purifier installed it your HVAC system. This helps to get rid of even the smallest particles in the air such as pet dander.
- Clean your ducts – Frequently cleaning your air ducts will ensure that pet hair and dander does not build up in your ducts and get spread around your home affecting the quality of your indoor air.
- Wash your pets – Make sure to brush and bathe your pets regularly and give their coat a trim if necessary. This helps to reduce shedding which in turn improves your indoor air quality.
Call Galmiche & Sons to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
In addition to following the steps above to limit the impact your pets have on indoor air quality, it is also important to have your system regularly cleaned and checked to ensure the best air quality and system performance. Galmiche & Sons has been proudly serving as the go-to HVAC company for many St. Louis area home and business owners since 1950. Call us today at 314-993-1110 and we will take care of your heating & air conditioning needs!
