As a pet parent, you want to make sure that your canine companion or feline friend’s needs are being met. You want to make sure they are well fed, and that they have a solid roof above their heads. You also want to ensure that they are comfortable at all times.
So aside from your family’s needs, you also need to think of your pets when choosing and maintaining your HVAC systems. Here are some considerations:
- Pet-proof your HVAC system: Yes, they are adorable and cuddly, but beyond all that cuteness is a mischievous streak waiting to come out when you are not looking. Dogs and cats may try to gnaw at the electrical wiring. They may even try to urinate on HVAC systems, or claw at the unit’s fins. If your pets may have access to any HVAC components, consider installing a protective cover or a cage around your HVAC system and keep a close watch to prevent damage.
- Clean up after pet dander: Animal dander will affect your indoor air quality. It may even become an allergen that could trigger asthma attacks or allergic rhinitis if you are not careful. If your pets shed a lot and you do not clean it up, their dander gets released into the air. This can get stuck in your HVAC systems’ air filters and clog them up. Regularly vacuum and clean up the areas where your pets frequently stay. Change your air filters and schedule air conditioner maintenance before the start of the heating and cooling seasons to remove pet dander and other allergens from your HVAC system.
- Schedule regular grooming appointments: To reduce the amount of pet dander, make sure to comb, bathe, and groom your pets on a regular basis. If you have a longhaired dog, consider giving them a summer trim to help cool them down. Do not shave all of their fur, though. Dogs can be susceptible to sunburns if their skin is exposed. Leave enough layers to protect them from the harsh rays of the sun.
- Regulate your thermostat settings: Consider how your pet is coping with the heat. Remember that dogs and cats cannot cool themselves the way we do through sweat. If you see that your dog is always panting or is drinking a lot of water, you may need to dial down your thermostat settings on your HVAC system. Leave your air conditioner at about 78° to 80° when you leave home, which should be a comfortable range for most animals.
- Keep the water coming: Like their human counterparts, hydration is important to keeping pets cool. Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times, especially when you are leaving for the day and there is no one else around.
Get Professional Help Maintaining Your HVAC System
Galmiche & Sons is a full-service HVAC company providing quality installation, repair, and maintenance for HVAC systems for homeowners in the greater St. Louis area. If your pet has accidentally damaged your heating and air conditioning system or if you need help pet proofing your system, give us a call today at 314-993-1110 or contact us online for heating and air conditioning service.
