What Can Animal Hair Do to My AC Filter?

Pets are an important part of many people’s lives. You probably consider your dog or cat a beloved family member and want to However, pet hair usually has a negative impact on the efficiency of your air conditioning system. With proper maintenance, you can avoid impacting airflow and protect the cooling equipment from harm. 

How Does an AC Filter Work, and Why is It So Important? 

A filter is an important part of any forced-air HVAC system. The filter is the primary solution to capture airborne particles, such as dust, pollen and pet hair, preventing these contaminants from circulating in your home. Various designs can be used effectively, including fiberglass, pleated and electrostatic. A filter’s effectiveness depends on its minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV), which ranges from 1 to 20, with higher ratings indicating better filtration. 

An air filter’s key purpose is the protection of the evaporator coil, blower motor and other important parts from dirt and debris that could cause damage. An efficient enough filter also improves indoor air quality by reducing particulates in the air, which can cause allergies, asthma attacks and other respiratory issues in sensitive individuals. 

How Does Pet Hair Affect Your HVAC System and Filter? 

When pets shed, their hair becomes airborne and is drawn into the HVAC system through the return air ducts. If there isn’t a filter in place, pet hair can build up on the evaporator coil, blower motor, fan blades and other components, reducing their efficiency and life span. Hair can also become clogged with moisture found in the cooling system, creating a breeding ground for mold and bacteria that can generate foul odors and lower indoor air quality. 

Even with a filter in place, pet hair isn’t harmless. When return airflow draws it toward the HVAC system, the filter does its job by trapping the hair and preventing it from landing on sensitive cooling components. However, this clogs the filter more quickly than usual, limiting airflow and placing additional strain on the HVAC system. Without intervention, you may experience higher energy bills and more frequent breakdowns. 

What About Animal Dander? 

Pet dander, which consists of small skin flakes and saliva particles, is a common allergen that causes respiratory problems in people with allergies or asthma. You need a filter with a high MERV rating to effectively capture and remove dander, which is much smaller than pet hair. 

How to Care for Your AC System and Filter with Pets 

Maintaining an efficient, properly functioning air conditioner is certainly possible, even with pets living in your home. Here’s how: 

• Change the filter regularly: Depending on the type of filter and how many pets you have, you might need to replace it every 30 to 90 days. Keep an eye on it every month and replace it if you notice weaker airflow or can see evidence of a clog. 

• Clean your air vents and ductwork: Pet hair gradually piles up against the air registers and grilles, reducing airflow. Clean these with the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner as often as needed. Then, hire a professional to remove built-up pet hair, dander and dust inside your ductwork every few years. 
• Keep pets well-groomed: Regular brushing and bathing is a great strategy for reducing pet hair. Brush your pets outside when possible and sweep the area afterward to prevent the hair from getting tracked inside. 
• Consistently vacuum and dust: Not all pet hair ends up in the HVAC system. A lot of it settles on surfaces around the house. Keep up a regular cleaning routine that includes vacuuming, sweeping, dusting and laundering your pet’s bedding. 
• Don’t let debris collect near the outdoor unit: Central air conditioners feature an outdoor unit mounted to a concrete slab just outside the home. Keep the area around this unit free of debris, including pet hair, grass clippings, dead leaves, and other objects. This encourages normal heat transfer for more efficient operation. 
• Schedule regular maintenance: An HVAC technician should inspect and maintain your cooling system once a year, preferably in the spring. This professional can identify and fix small issues, clean internal components and share advice on keeping your air conditioning running efficiently with pets. 

Contact for Indoor Air Quality Services 

If you’re concerned about how your pets are affecting your HVAC system and indoor air quality, turn to for expert advice and solutions. We offer a range of indoor air quality products best suited for combating pet hair and dander, including high-end air filtration, whole-house ventilation and air duct cleaning. We can also maintain your HVAC system for maximum performance and efficiency. Rest assured that everything we do is backed by a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee! To request indoor air quality services in North America, please contact today.