Does My Pet Affect My Home’s Indoor Air Quality?

Indoor air can contain a variety of contaminants that affect the health of you, your family and your pets. Tightly-sealed Naples homes save on energy costs. However, insufficient ventilation allows airborne pollutants like pet hair and pet dander to take over your home, which negatively affects your indoor air quality.

Pet Dander and Pet Fur

Pet dander is composed of tiny flakes of dead skin that fall off your pet when it sheds fur. Because these particles are small, they can stay in the air indefinitely. By some estimates, pet dander remains airborne longer than dust mites. The flakes also stick to fabric, furniture and carpeting.

For those with allergies, these flakes can cause sneezing, runny nose, coughing, sore throat, watering eyes, sinus irritation, breathing difficulties and other reactions. When pets go outside, allergens stick to their fur and are tracked into the house.

Frequent Filter Changes Are a Must

Filters need changing when you can’t see the filter through the dirt. For a typical family of four without pets, filters should be changed every 30 to 90 days. With pets, filters may need replacement every month. Frequency of filter changes will also depend on the pet. Some breeds shed more than others.

HVAC Air Filters: A Solution for Pet Dander

HVAC air filters have MERV ratings that go from one to 20. The higher the MERV, the more effective the filter. Filters with MERV ratings between eight and 11 capture pet dander. They also trap biological growth, dust mites, pollen, carpet fibers, human hair and pet hair.

At JP Brett & Sons Air Conditioning, we want you and your pets to breathe fresh and healthy air. To learn more about our indoor air quality solutions for people with pets, call us today.