HVAC Tips for Pet Owners

Indoor Air Quality and Your Pets

When the windows are shut and the HVAC unit is blowing, indoor air quality is always a consideration. What about those of us with pets? Should we be more concerned?

Thousands of us are owners to our beloved pets. Being a pet owner is arguably one of the greatest joys in life. We take care of our pets by feeding them, walking them and playing with them on a regular basis. However you may not be thinking about your HVAC system and how it relates to your pet. Here are some tips to help you and Fido or Fifi have a healthy life.

Air filters

You should know that changing your air filters is imperative to the air quality in your home as well as the efficiency of your HVAC system. Changing the air filters can also help with pet dander. If you or your pet for that matter have any types of allergies, changing the air filter on a regular basis will help you breathe well.

Ductwork

Pet dander can get into the ductwork of your home. You should have your ductwork cleaned by a professional. Having this yearly maintenance will remove the pet dander and keep your family healthy and your HVAC system running efficiently.

Air purifier

Another option to deal with pet dander and allergies in your home is to install an air purifier. This can help cut down the allergens in your air and make a difference in your air quality.

Programmable thermostat

 Using a programmable thermostat will help you keep the temperature regulated in your home. You should set your temperatures according to what you prefer. Pets won't really notice changes in the temperatures too much. They are equipped to cool themselves off or to keep themselves warm on their own.

Pet doors

You may enjoy the convenience of a doggie door however you need to make sure that the doors are properly sealed. Escaping air will cause your system to run inefficiently.

Avoid drafty areas

If you have pets in tanks or cages you should keep them away from drafty areas. Also if your cage is placed near a blower this could be problematic for your pet.

We all love our pets unconditionally and it is important to keep them safe and sound inside of our homes. Follow these tips and your pet will be comfortable all day long. If you have any other maintenance questions or need service, contact Morgan Air. Our professionals will help you maintain a cool and comfortable home environment for everyone in your house. 813-500-7765

HVAC Heat Pumps

HEAT PUMP BASICS

If your home is like most in Florida than the type of HVAC system you have is called a heat pump.  You may be wondering what the system is called a heat pump when we rarely use heat.  Read on to understand the basics of a heat pump. 

WHAT IS A HEAT PUMP?

First, a heat pump is installed in different parts. The first is the air handler which is installed indoors. The outdoor unit is similar to a central air conditioner unit however it is called a heat pump. There is a compressor that circulates refrigerant and absorbs and releases heat as it travels between the indoor and outdoor units.  The heat pump has a compressor that can be reversed in order to create heat or cold air in your home depending on your needs. 

HOW DOES A HEAT PUMP WORK?

A heat pump basically moves warm air from one place to another depending on when it is needed, where it is needed and what season it is. When it is cold outside the heat pump extracts the heat from the air outside and transports it into your home.  Even though it is cold, there are still warm air particles.   When it's warm out, the direction is reversed and the heat pump acts like an air conditioner, removing heat from your home.

Advantages

A main advantage of a heat pump is energy efficiency because it is powered by electricity you will save on fuel consumption heat pumps are among the most efficient ways to heat or cool your home.  Heat pumps are mostly suited for warmer or moderate climates.  Because they move heat around rather than produce heat.

Operating tips

·         Don't turn the thermostat so that the backup heating needs to come on, this is electric heat and will cost you more to run

·         Running your fan constantly will degrade the performance of the heat pump unless you have a high-efficiency fan motor

·         You should run your system on the auto setting for the fan on the thermostat

·         A programmable thermostat works best with a heat pump to create the utmost efficiency

·         Clean or change filters once a month or as needed

Floridians tend to take their air conditioning for granted unless something happens to it.  Now that you know the ins and outs of your heat pump system, you are on the right track to enjoying comfortable air temps inside of your home year round.  When you need maintenance, have any issues or questions on your heat pump call the HVAC specialists at Morgan Air.   813-500-7765