As a pet owner in Northern VA and MD, you know that your furry friends are more than just animals – they’re vital members of your family. But while their companionship is priceless, it’s no secret that pet hair, dander, and odors can take a toll on your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ). So, how can you ensure that your cuddly companions don’t compromise your family’s comfort and health? We’ve got some simple tips for your cooling system that’ll help you optimize your IAQ, so you can breathe easier and love your pets even more.
Change Your Filters
Air filters are the frontline of defense for your cooling & furnace system, capturing pet hair, dander, and other airborne particles to keep your air clean. Make sure you’re checking your filters every month and replacing them as necessary, typically every 1-3 months. It’s essential to choose the right filter with a high MERV rating of at least 8, which is designed to capture even smaller particles such as pet dander. Remember, a well-maintained filter is key to reducing allergens in the air.
Clean Your Home (and Your Pets!)
While it might seem obvious, maintaining a clean home is a fundamental step in improving your IAQ. This starts with vacuuming your floors, carpets, and furniture regularly, as well as mopping and dusting hard surfaces. And, in most cases, grooming your pets regularly and keeping them clean will significantly decrease the amount of fur and dander floating about from shedding.
Invest in Air Purifiers
If you own a pet and find yourself constantly cleaning and spraying down your home, consider investing in an air purifier. Air purifiers are designed to rid your home of any germs and contaminants, using germicidal UV lamps to do the job. Unlike air cleaners which use filters or screens, air purifiers don’t require frequent maintenance – making them a more cost-effective and hassle-free option for capturing and removing pet hair, dander, and odors from your home. An expert from Falcon has the knowledge to recommend a product that best meets your needs and your budget.
Duct Maintenance
Let’s talk about ducts. Air ducts are like pipes that carry air around your house from your air conditioner or furnace. They transfer the heated or cooled air from room to room so that each room can stay comfortable. Over time, your ductwork can accumulate dust, debris, and yes, pet hair and dander. To avoid sneezing, coughing, and runny noses due to accumulation, it’s essential to schedule professional ductwork cleaning every 1-2 years to promote a healthy IAQ. Not only will this help improve indoor air quality, but it will also help your cooling & furnace system run more efficiently and ultimately save you money on energy costs. With proper maintenance from a Falcon expert, you can rest assured that the air in your home is both clean and safe for everyone to breathe!
Regular HVAC System Maintenance
Your HVAC system deserves some TLC, especially when you have pets. Schedule annual maintenance for your furnace and cooling systems to ensure their efficiency, prolong their lifespan, and help detect any potential issues early on. Regular tune-ups will optimize your HVAC system and help maintain comfortable and clean air for you, your family, and your pets to enjoy.
Owning pets is no excuse for poor indoor air quality. With routine system maintenance, frequent cleaning, and effective air filtration systems, you can still keep your home’s air clean and healthy for everyone. Give us a call at (703) 596-9998 to schedule any one of these core services and breathe easier knowing that your family (pets included) is breathing easier and healthier.