Category: Heating

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AC Heating HVAC Tips and Advice

How to Avoid Cold and Hot Spots in Your Home

Maintaining consistent temperatures throughout your home is essential for both comfort and energy efficiency. Uneven heating or cooling can lead to discomfort, higher energy bills, and frustration. Here are some effective strategies to eliminate hot and cold spots in your home and achieve balanced temperatures.

Ensure Unobstructed Air Vents

Blocked or closed vents can disrupt airflow, causing temperature inconsistencies. Regularly inspect all supply and return vents to ensure they are open and free from obstructions such as furniture, curtains, or debris. Proper airflow is crucial for even temperature distribution throughout your home.

Replace Air Filters Regularly

Dirty or clogged air filters restrict airflow, leading to uneven temperatures in your home. Replace your HVAC system’s air filters every 1-3 months to maintain optimal airflow and efficiency. Clean filters not only promote even temperatures but also improve indoor air quality.

Use Ceiling Fans to Distribute Air

Ceiling fans can help improve air circulation and distribute air evenly. During summer, set fans to rotate counterclockwise to push cool air down. In winter, switch them to rotate clockwise at a low speed to circulate warm air that rises to the ceiling, helping balance room temperatures.

Implement a Zoning System

A zoning system allows you to control the temperature in different areas of your home independently. By installing separate thermostats and dampers, you can adjust heating and cooling in specific zones, minimizing hot and cold spots and maximizing comfort.

Check for Air Leaks

Air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork can cause temperature fluctuations and uneven cooling or heating. Seal any gaps or cracks with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent conditioned air from escaping and unconditioned air from entering, ensuring a consistent indoor climate.

Assess and Upgrade Insulation

Inadequate insulation can lead to heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, causing uneven temperatures. Make sure your home, especially the attic and walls, is properly insulated to maintain consistent indoor temperatures and reduce the workload on your HVAC system.

Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

Regular HVAC maintenance is essential for keeping your system running efficiently. Professional inspections can identify and resolve issues such as duct leaks, system imbalances, or worn components that contribute to uneven temperatures in your home.

Achieve Comfort and Efficiency

By implementing these strategies, you can eliminate cold and hot spots in your home and create a more comfortable living environment. Balanced temperatures not only enhance your comfort but also help reduce energy costs and improve overall system efficiency. Take the time to inspect your home, address any problem areas, and schedule regular maintenance for long-term benefits.

Need Help? Contact Ellis Air Conditioning and Heating

If you’re struggling with uneven heating or cooling, Ellis Air Conditioning and Heating can help. Our expert technicians specialize in diagnosing and resolving HVAC issues to ensure your home is as comfortable and energy-efficient as possible. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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Can the HVAC Industry Benefit from Carbon Pricing?

The HVAC industry plays a crucial role in energy consumption and carbon emissions, making it a prime sector for exploring the potential benefits of carbon pricing. With the push toward sustainability, carbon pricing could incentivize energy-efficient solutions and drive innovation. But what does carbon pricing mean for HVAC companies and their customers? Let’s delve into the implications and opportunities.

Understanding Carbon Pricing and Its Goals

Carbon pricing is a strategy aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by assigning a cost to carbon output. This financial incentive encourages businesses and industries to adopt cleaner, more sustainable practices. The two primary approaches to carbon pricing are:

Carbon Tax

A direct tax is imposed on the carbon content of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas. The higher the emissions, the greater the tax, motivating industries to cut down on energy consumption.

Cap-and-Trade

Under this system, a cap is set on total emissions, and companies receive or purchase emission allowances. Businesses that emit less than their quota can sell excess allowances to others, creating a financial incentive for reducing emissions.

The Impact of Carbon Pricing on the HVAC Industry

The HVAC industry, which heavily influences energy consumption in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, could see significant changes under carbon pricing policies. Here’s how:

Encouraging Energy-Efficient Equipment

Carbon pricing would make energy-intensive systems more expensive to operate. This could spur demand for high-efficiency HVAC systems, such as those with smart thermostats and advanced energy-saving technologies.

Driving Innovation

With financial incentives to reduce emissions, HVAC manufacturers may prioritize developing eco-friendly solutions, such as geothermal systems and energy-efficient heat pumps. This shift aligns with the growing interest in eco-friendly HVAC solutions.

Increasing Operational Costs

While carbon pricing encourages sustainable practices, it could also raise the costs of manufacturing and maintaining HVAC systems, especially those dependent on fossil fuels. Businesses may need to offset these costs by investing in cleaner technologies.

Supporting Renewable Energy Integration

HVAC systems paired with renewable energy sources, like solar panels, could become more attractive under carbon pricing. These systems align with the goal of reducing carbon emissions and offer long-term savings for consumers.

Benefits for Consumers and Businesses

Both consumers and businesses stand to gain from carbon pricing initiatives in the HVAC industry:

  • Lower Energy Bills: As energy-efficient systems become standard, consumers can enjoy reduced utility costs.
  • Improved Indoor Air Quality: Advanced systems designed for sustainability often come with better air filtration and climate control, enhancing overall comfort.
  • Enhanced Brand Reputation: Businesses adopting greener HVAC technologies can appeal to environmentally conscious customers and strengthen their market position.

Challenges to Overcome

Despite the benefits, implementing carbon pricing in the HVAC industry comes with challenges:

Initial Costs

The upfront cost of transitioning to energy-efficient systems may be a barrier for some businesses and homeowners. Flexible financing options, such as those offered by Ellis Air Conditioning and Heating, can help bridge the gap.

Industry Adaptation

Manufacturers and service providers must adapt quickly to changing policies and technologies, which requires significant investment in training and equipment upgrades.

Policy Variability

Carbon pricing policies vary by region, making it difficult for nationwide HVAC companies to standardize their approach.

How Ellis Air Conditioning and Heating Can Help

At Ellis Air Conditioning and Heating, we’re committed to staying ahead of industry trends and helping our customers transition to sustainable, energy-efficient solutions. Our services include:

  • Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Explore how regular maintenance can improve your system’s performance and reduce energy consumption.
  • Smart System Installation: Learn about our expertise in installing innovative, eco-friendly HVAC systems designed for optimal efficiency.
  • Comprehensive HVAC Services: From repairs to replacements, we provide solutions tailored to your needs.

Looking Ahead: A Greener Future for HVAC

Carbon pricing presents an opportunity for the HVAC industry to lead the charge toward sustainability. By adopting energy-efficient practices and technologies, HVAC companies can reduce emissions, save costs, and create a more sustainable future for all.

Contact Us for Energy-Efficient Solutions

At Ellis Air Conditioning and Heating, we’re here to guide you through the transition to greener HVAC solutions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you lower your carbon footprint while improving comfort and efficiency in your home or business.

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AC Heating HVAC Tips and Advice

Why it’s Important to Regularly Change Your HVAC Filter

For most homeowners, the health of their HVAC system isn’t a top concern. It’s easy to forget about HVAC maintenance until something stops working, but ignoring regular maintenance until your system needs repairs can become expensive very quickly. Regularly changing your air filter is a great way to avoid system failure and improve your indoor air quality. Here’s everything you need to know about your air filter and the importance of changing it on a schedule.

The Purpose of Air Filters

Air filters do the very important job of removing contaminants like dust, mold spores, dander, pollen, pet fur, and bacteria from your home’s air. They’re usually placed in return ducts, which suck air in and push it through the filter with enough force to remove contaminant particles. The filtered air is circulated back through the vents and into your home.

How Often You Should Replace Your Filter

The time between filter replacements depends on a few things. Filters come in different strengths measured by MERV ratings. Lower MERV filters should be checked more often, while higher MERV filters might be able to go longer in between checkups. However, the most important consideration is the number of pets in your home. Houses with no pets can usually go 90 days without changing their filter. Single pet households should change their filters every 60 days, while homes with multiple pets should only wait 20 to 45 days between filter changes. For a quick checkup on your filter, take it out and hold it up to the light. If you can’t see through the filter, it’s time for a change.

The Consequences of Neglecting Your Air Filter

When you filter goes too long without being changed, contaminants like dust and pet fur will build up and be much harder for the air to penetrate. This can cause higher electric bills, poor temperature regulation, and lower indoor air quality. Air quality changes can negatively affect the health of the people in your home, especially those who have allergies or respiratory health issues.

How to Change an Air Filter

Before switching out your old filter, you need to get a new one. Look for the size of your filter, which is usually printed on the cardboard frame. If you want to improve your indoor air quality with a stronger filter, you should get one with a MERV rating of 10 or higher. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when changing your filter.

Look for your air filter. They’re usually located in return ducts, which are much larger than other vents. If your home has more than one return duct, it might be a challenge to find the one that holds the filter. Start by turning off the power to your HVAC system to keep yourself and your equipment safe from harm. Open the vent and slide the old filter out of the slot holding it in place. Put it in a trash bag and dispose of it as soon as you’re done. Then simply slide the new filter in place, close the vent, and turn the power back on.

HVAC Maintenance and Repairs with Ellis AC

If you have any questions about air filters or need HVAC maintenance or repairs, Ellis AC can help. Our team is dedicated to top-notch service and client satisfaction, and we’ll always take the time to answer any questions you may have. Call or visit our website for more information or a free quote on our services!

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AC Heating HVAC Tips and Advice

10 Budget-Friendly Tips to Stay Warm This Winter

Winter is here, and while we all love the cozy vibes, keeping your home warm can sometimes lead to skyrocketing energy bills. The good news? You don’t have to choose between comfort and cost! With a few simple changes, you can stay warm and save money this winter. Here are 10 budget-friendly tips to help you beat the chill without breaking the bank.

1. Rearrange Furniture for Better Heat Flow

Take a look at your furniture placement. Is anything blocking your air vents or radiators? By clearing the way, you allow warm air to circulate freely, ensuring your heating system works more efficiently. A quick rearrangement can make your home feel cozier without turning up the thermostat.

2. Let the Shower Steam Work for You

After you enjoy a hot shower, leave the bathroom door open to let the steam flow into your home. Not only does this add warmth, but it also increases humidity, making the air feel more comfortable. Bonus: it’s a free way to add a little extra heat!

3. Harness the Power of the Sun

During the day, open your curtains and blinds to let in natural sunlight—it’s like nature’s free heater. At night, close them to trap the heat inside and block out the cold. Thick or insulated curtains work best for keeping the warmth where it belongs.

4. Seal Those Drafts

Drafty windows and doors can let precious heat escape. Check for gaps and use weatherstripping, caulk, or even draft stoppers to seal them up. Don’t forget about door sweeps for the bottoms of doors—these can make a big difference in keeping the cold air out.

5. Make the Most of Your Fireplace

If you have a fireplace, it’s a great way to add warmth and ambiance to your home. Just be sure to close the damper when it’s not in use to prevent warm air from escaping. And if it’s been a while, consider having your chimney inspected to ensure it’s operating safely and efficiently.

6. Bundle Up Indoors

Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best. Layer up with cozy sweaters, warm socks, and maybe even a hat while lounging at home. By keeping yourself warm, you’ll rely less on your heating system—plus, it’s a great excuse to break out your favorite winter knits!

7. Focus on Zone Heating

Why heat the whole house if you’re only using a few rooms? Close doors to unused spaces and focus your heating efforts where you need them most. This tactic not only saves energy but also makes the areas you occupy feel warmer faster.

8. Don’t Skip HVAC Maintenance

Your heating system works hard during the winter, so give it a little TLC. Replace dirty filters, clean out ducts, and schedule a professional inspection to ensure it’s running efficiently. A well-maintained system uses less energy and saves you money in the long run.

9. Add Warmth with Rugs

Hardwood or tile floors might look great, but they can feel icy during winter. Lay down area rugs to add a layer of insulation and keep your feet warm. It’s a simple, stylish way to reduce heat loss and add a touch of coziness to your home.

10. Cook Your Favorite Comfort Foods

Warm up your home while preparing delicious meals! Baking or using your stovetop adds heat to your kitchen, creating a toasty environment while you whip up comfort foods. It’s a win-win: a warm home and a satisfied stomach.

Stay Cozy Without Breaking the Bank

Keeping warm this winter doesn’t have to mean turning up the thermostat and bracing for sky-high energy bills. With these simple, cost-effective tips, you can keep your home cozy and comfortable while saving money. Small changes can add up to big results, so give these strategies a try and enjoy a budget-friendly, warm winter!

If you’re looking for professional help with your heating system, Ellis Air Conditioning and Heating is just a call away. Whether you need maintenance, repairs, or a new installation, we’re here to keep your home cozy all season long. Contact us today to learn more!

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AC Heating HVAC Tips and Advice

Common HVAC Smells and Their Causes

Smell is one of the key clues that something is wrong with your HVAC system. One small problem can cause unpleasant odors to be circulated through the vents and into your home. It’s important to know what these smells mean so you can have the problem repaired as soon as possible. Here are some of the most common HVAC smells you might encounter and what they mean.

Mildew or Mold

Moldy or mildew smells are probably the most common with HVAC systems. Condensation usually forms on some parts of your HVAC system, and it needs to be properly drained. If there’s an issue with drainage, the condensation can build up and cause mold or mildew to form. This may not be as serious as other HVAC problems, but mold and mildew buildup can cause or worsen respiratory issues for anyone in the home. An HVAC technician can easily find the source and fix the problem before it gets worse.

Gas

It’s common to smell burning gas when you first turn your heater on. Dust settles on the heat exchanger when it isn’t used during the summer, and turning the heater on causes it to be burned off. If the smell isn’t coming from the vents, it could be a more serious problem like a leaking pipe. Be sure to call an HVAC technician right away and don’t attempt to fix the issue on your own. 

Rotten Egg Smell

Utility providers usually add a sulfur or rotten egg smell to natural gas, which is usually odorless, to help residents identify leaks. If a harsh rotten egg smell is coming from your vents, it’s most likely a natural gas leak. You should immediately open the windows and get out of the house if this happens, and call your gas company right away.

Oil

If you smell oil, you should first look for a leak. The oil smell could be caused by a pipe or fitting that needs to be tightened by an HVAC technician. If it isn’t a leak, the problem is most likely the oil burner. Oil burner malfunctions can be caused by a range of issues, so watch out for smoke and unusual sounds. Call an HVAC technician to take care of the issue right away. 

Burning or Electrical Smell

It’s common for a burning or electrical smell to come from your vents when you turn the heater on for the first time. If the smell is too strong or lasts longer than a day, it could mean your unit is overheating. Turn it off and call an HVAC professional, but don’t try to find or solve the problem yourself.

Quality HVAC Repairs with Ellis AC

Regular HVAC maintenance is the key to avoiding serious damage and expensive repairs. Ellis AC offers inspections, maintenance, and repairs to keep your HVAC in great condition for as long as possible. We work fast to identify and treat the problem, and our team is always willing to answer any questions you may have. Call or visit our website for a free quote!

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HVAC Maintenance to Improve Asthma Symptoms

Indoor air quality is an important part of keeping your family healthy. Poor air quality can worsen allergies, weaken your immune system, and make respiratory illnesses like asthma worse. Treatment plans and regular doctor visits are key for keeping asthma at bay, but HVAC improvements can help reduce symptoms of the disorder. If anyone in your family has asthma or similar health issues, here are a few things you can do to adjust your indoor air quality and improve symptoms.

Change and Upgrade Your Filter

Air filters are a part of your HVAC system designed to filter pollutants like pollen, dust, dander and pet fur out of the air before it gets released into your home. You should check on your filter at least once a month with a visual inspection. Hold the filter up to the light. If you can’t see through the filter, it’s time to replace it. Air filter quality is measured with MERV ratings. Anything with a MERV rating of 9-16 can filter out much smaller pollutants than lower rated filters, and might be better for the people with asthma in your home.

Adjust Humidity Levels

High humidity is a common asthma trigger. You can reduce your humidity by opening windows, moving indoor plants outside, turning on the fan when you shower, or investing in a smart thermometer. Smart thermometers usually display the humidity and the temperature, and some will allow you to adjust your indoor humidity. The summer months are typically when your indoor humidity will spike, and indoor humidity is usually the lowest during fall and winter.

Increase Your Home’s Airflow

Stagnant air is another common asthma trigger, which is why ventilation is great for improving asthma symptoms. Try opening windows or keeping fans running throughout the home. The exhaust fan in your kitchen is another way to keep air flowing in your kitchen. Airflow is especially important if you’ve made any recent renovations to the home, since strong fumes and dust can worsen asthma symptoms. 

Avoid Strong Air Fresheners

Air fresheners are a great way to keep your home smelling nice and fresh, but they can cause problems for people with asthma. Not only can strong scents make symptoms worse, but the smell of air fresheners masks other important smells. For example, you could miss a problem with your HVAC system because you didn’t notice it was emitting a smell right away. It’s best to catch and repair HVAC issues right away, or else they could cause bigger problems and worsen asthma symptoms. Try to avoid air fresheners, or only get ones that don’t have a very strong smell.

HVAC Maintenance and Repairs with Ellis AC

If you’re trying to improve your indoor air quality, Ellis AC can help. We offer top-notch HVAC maintenance, repairs, and replacements with high client satisfaction, all at a reasonable price. Our experienced HVAC technicians are dedicated to helping you improve your health by improving your air quality. Call or visit our website for a free quote today!

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How to Increase Your Home’s Humidity Level

When the seasons transition into fall and winter, the humidity in our air drops dramatically. The Mayo Clinic recommends a home humidity level between 30-50%. Anything above that can cause mold and bacteria to grow, and anything below can lead to dry skin/lips, nosebleeds, a sore throat and difficulty sleeping. Your indoor humidity can easily stay within the recommended range during spring and summer, but it quickly dissipates during the colder months. Here are a few ways you can improve your home’s humidity when your air dries up.

Invest in A Large Humidifier

This is the most effective trick on the list, but it’s also the most expensive. The best way to quickly boost your indoor humidity to invest in a humidifier large enough for the job. Most small, affordable humidifiers fail to make significant humidity changes in larger rooms or throughout your home, so spend the extra money to get one large and strong enough to suit your needs.

Houseplants

If you don’t have the money or space for a heavy-duty humidifier, buy some houseplants instead. They look nice in your home and they naturally release moisture into the air through a process called transpiration. Research different plants and their requirements beforehand and only choose plants that can thrive indoors, and that aren’t too difficult for you to look after.

Use an Indoor Drying Rack

Save money and improve your humidity at the same time by using an indoor drying rack. These can be found online or at home improvement stores for anywhere between $20-50. Just load your fresh-washed clothes onto the rack and position it anywhere in your home that needs to be humidified. When your clothes are done drying, these racks can be easily folded and stored away in your closet.

Make the Most of Showers and Baths

Try showering with the bathroom door open to let the steam out. If you have family members or roommates, you might want to let them know beforehand so they don’t unexpectedly walk in. When taking baths, let the water sit in the tub for a while before draining it. The excess steam will evaporate into the air instead of fogging up your mirror, and you’ll be able to get the most out of the water you use on a daily basis.

Let Bowls of Water Evaporate

The last tip on this list is probably the cheapest and easiest one. All you have to do is fill some bowls with water and place them near heat sources and sunny spots. Let the water evaporate and refill the bowls when they’re empty to maintain your home’s humidity.

Improve Indoor Air Quality With Ellis AC

If you’re struggling to improve or maintain your air quality, your HVAC system might be the problem. At Ellis AC, we offer a wide range of quality HVAC services at affordable prices. Our clients come first, and we always strive to give the most helpful service at the best rates. Call or visit our website for a free quote today!

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How to Choose the Best Air Filter

Air filters play a very important role in your HVAC system, but they can be easily forgotten or overlooked. Different homes also need different levels of filtration, which can make shopping for a new filter feel overwhelming. Going too long without replacing your filter, or using the wrong quality filter for your home and air filtration needs, can cause health and sanitation issues for your family.  Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the best air filter for your home.

The Purpose of Air Filters

Air filters can be made of fiberglass, cloth or pleated paper, which is usually surrounded with wire and secured in a cardboard frame. Filters are responsible for cleaning contaminants out of the air that circulates through your HVAC system. When air is taken in, it’s blown through the filter and back out through the vents, cleaning the pollutants from it. Contaminants like dust, pollen, mold spores, lint, dander, pet fur, and bacteria can all be filtered out of your indoor air with the right air filter. This helps to improve your air quality, which can be beneficial for people with asthma, allergies, and weakened immune systems.

What is a MERV Rating?

The strength and efficiency of air filters are measured with a minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV rating. Most filters score between 1-16 on the MERV scale. The number is used to indicate how well the filter will remove pollutants from the air. MERV 1-4 are basic filters, and they cost the least. MERV 6-8 filters can remove more particles from the air and are the most common filters for residential use. MERV 9-12 filters are at the higher end, and they can filter anything that’s one micron or larger. Finally, MERV 13-16 are the highest quality standard filter and can filter out any particle that’s 0.3 microns or larger. 

Maintaining and Replacing Your Air Filter

It’s extremely important to change your filter regularly, or else your air quality can quickly decline. All the air in your home comes into contact with the filter eventually, and a dirty or clogged filter can cause airflow issues and leech pollutants into your home’s air. Your HVAC system also has to work harder when the filter is clogged, which can spike your electric bill. Check your filter every month or so with a visual inspection. If you hold the filter up to the light and can’t see through it, it’s time for a replacement.

HVAC Maintenance and Repairs with Ellis AC

Ellis AC offers quality HVAC repairs, maintenance and replacements at reasonable prices. We value great services and client satisfaction above all else, and we’re always doing everything we can to keep our clients informed and educated. Our experienced HVAC technicians work hard to help your system last as long as possible, and they’ll take the time to tell you everything you need to know about maintaining it. Call or visit our website for a free quote on our stellar HVAC services!

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Your Fall HVAC Checklist

As we approach the end of summer, everyone is already preparing for the colder weather. Be sure to take care of your HVAC system by giving it the maintenance it needs before the seasons change. Spring and fall are also the perfect times to prepare your HVAC for winter, where it’ll be working its hardest to keep you comfortable and out of the cold. Weather changes are a stressful time for your HVAC, so follow this maintenance checklist to give it a boost.

Schedule an Inspection

Regular inspections are key to the health and longevity of your HVAC, and the shift from summer to fall is a great time to schedule one. Having a team of HVAC technicians check on the health of your system and notify you of any problems can improve its lifespan and give you peace of mind.

Upgrade Your Filters

If you’ve been neglecting to change the filters for your HVAC, air purifier, humidifier, or anything else, your indoor air quality could suffer. Take the time to change and even upgrade your filters before the seasons change.

Test Your Heater and Furnace

Don’t wait until the cold weather starts to turn your heaters/furnaces. Test them before the seasons change to make yourself aware of any problems that need to be fixed. If you encounter issues with your heaters or furnaces, schedule an appointment to have them inspected and repaired. 

Clean Air Conditioners

Your air conditioner condensate drain can build algae and mold over time, which can cause serious health issues for you and your family. This buildup can even cause clogs if it grows for too long, so give it a quick clean before fall comes around. Pour one cup of a 50/50 bleach and water mixture down your condensate drain for a thorough cleaning.

Boost Your Indoor Humidity

If you live in a dry climate, you should be taking measures to keep your indoor humidity up throughout the year. For areas with hot and humid summers, fall can dry out your air and cause health issues. Take steps to improve your indoor humidity with a humidifier, houseplants, or by leaving bowls of water near a heat source and allowing them to evaporate. 

Address Insulation Problems Now

If your insulation is damaged, old or outdated, your HVAC will have to work harder to keep your home warm. Poor insulation can spike your electric bill during winter, so take the time to replace and upgrade it if your system is struggling to combat outdoor temperatures. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times for you or a contractor to take care of insulation issues. 

HVAC Inspections and Maintenance With Ellis AC

Are you getting ready for the cold fall and winter months? Get the most out of your HVAC system during the cold seasons when you schedule inspections and maintenance with Ellis AC. Our experienced HVAC technicians always put quality service and client satisfaction first with thorough work and frequent updates. We strive to give you the best service at affordable prices. Call or visit our website for a free quote on our HVAC inspections, maintenance, and repairs!

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HVAC Maintenance for Pet Owners

Our furry friends can brighten our lives and bring us endless joy. Unfortunately, they also leave a lot of dander and fur all over our homes. This fur and dander can build up and cause problems for our HVAC systems, so it’s important to take steps to protect our HVAC systems from our animals. Here’s what you can do to maintain your HVAC as a pet owner.

Wash Your Pet Regularly

The best way to remove excess fur and dander from your pet is to wash them regularly. The bath will loosen shedding fur and wash it away, along with dander that may build up and cause allergies over time.

Manage Pet Fur and Dander

Clean your floors, surfaces, and furniture of pet hair and dander to prevent it from getting in your HVAC system. Vacuum all your carpets and carpets at least once a week, sweep and mop hard floors every few days, and wipe down any surfaces that may collect dander.

Improve Your HVAC Filter

HVAC filters come in different strengths depending on your needs. The strengths of HVAC filters are measured in MERVs, and pet owners should look for a higher MERV filter for their HVAC systems. High MERV filters will stand up to pet hair better, and they’ll filter more dander out of your air. They’ll also last longer between replacements than lower MERV filters.

Protect Exposed HVAC Parts

If your animals spend any amount of time in your backyard, they pose a risk to your outdoor HVAC unit. They might chew on exposed cords or wires, and dogs could urinate on the outdoor unit. This can do serious damage to your HVAC system. Cover any exposed wires in your yard to prevent chewing or breaking, and keep your outdoor unit covered with waterproof material to protect from dog urine. Try to supervise your pets when you let them in the backyard and discourage them from getting too close to the outdoor unit.

Maintain Air Ducts on A Schedule

If your air ducts sustain damage or tears, they could be exposed to pet hair and dander. Pollutants in your air ducts lowers the quality of air in your home, so be sure to check on and clean your air ducts regularly. If you notice or suspect tears, call an HVAC repair service and schedule repairs as soon as possible. Air ducts transport air throughout your home, and polluted air ducts can worsen allergies, asthma, and common sicknesses like the flu. As a pet owner, it’s important to ensure your air ducts don’t collect hair and dander from your animals.

Quality HVAC Maintenance With Ellis AC

Regular HVAC inspections and maintenance are especially important for pet owners. Ellis AC offers thorough inspections, cleanings, maintenance, and repairs at reasonable prices. We take the time to tell you what we’re doing every step of the way, and to educate you on how you can improve the lifespan of your HVAC system. As a family-owned business, we strive to provide quality service to all our customers. Call or visit our website for a free quote on our top-notch HVAC services!