Dog Parents: Here's How to Protect Yourself from a Pricey AC Mishap
By: Lizz CaputoThis canine-caused issue can require some costly TLC for your HVAC. Hear what experts say you can do to protect your home, save money, and prevent damage.
As the dedicated partner in crime to a curious canine, you've meticulously safeguarded your space against the usual suspects: chewed-up sneakers and claw-marked couches. But lurking in your dog-proof den might be an overlooked danger—your backyard’s AC unit.
Vulnerable to your pee-happy pup’s antics, HVAC technicians have reportedly seen an increase in pricey replacement and repair requests from unsuspecting pet parents. As heat waves pummel the nation and temps continue to rise, let’s unpack how you can shield your cool oasis from these doggone stealthy assaults.
Spot the hidden enemy
Nestled outside, your AC unit’s condenser coils are critical for ejecting heat and keeping your pad cold. However, when your dog turns these coils into their go-to potty spot, their acidic urine can corrode the metal. This slow siege can cripple your AC’s cooling ability, leading to inefficiency and, eventually, a total knockout.
Even newer units with protective grates aren't immune to damage. Repair techs claim that the most heavy-duty models are no match for the corrosive material.
The science behind your AC
Understanding the mechanics of your outdoor AC unit can elevate your approach to protecting it from puppy pee. Here’s the lowdown on how it works:
The Heat Hustle: Your outdoor unit’s main job is to ditch the heat pulled from indoors. Hot refrigerant zips through the condensing coil, and a fan blows air over it, grabbing the heat and cooling the refrigerant down. This chilled refrigerant then heads back inside to pull out more heat. And so the cycle repeats.
Fins Are In: Attached to the coil are aluminum fins, and not of the sea animal variety. They keep your unit running seamlessly, expanding the coil's surface area so they can shed heat quickly. They're vital for energy efficiency.
Help! The AC is my dog's go-to potty spot
Source: Ris G Handmade
With the help of HVAC company Coolray, let's explore the various stages of damage and what you can do to prevent further issues, plus the associated costs.
Minor damage
If dog urine has only hit a small section (less than 25% of the fins), and there's no leak in the coil, you could opt to just monitor the situation. Though the fins boost efficiency, a few missing ones won't shut down the operation. Still, keep your partner in crime from upping the damage, unless you're cool with slightly higher AC bills—cheaper than a full repair, but a hit to efficiency.
Damage toll: Expect a 2-10% drop in energy efficiency.
Major coil damage
If your curious copilot's antics have left the coil wrecked, or more than a quarter of the fins have vanished, gear up for a bigger fix. You should probably swap out the coil if:
Your AC is still a newbie.
A replacement coil costs less than half of a new unit.
Renovating Your Home This Fall? Here’s How to Keep Pets Safe.
Can we build it? Yes we can! Before you update your house, use these tips to ensure no pets are harmed during your home maintenance or renovation project.
Damage toll: You're looking at a repair bill from $600 to over $2,000 to replace just the coil.
Total system makeover
When the coil's beyond saving and the following conditions are true:
Your AC is a decade old or more.
Replacing just the coil would cost you more than half of what a new unit runs.
Replacement coils for your unit are scarce or unavailable.
Damage toll: You'll likely be shelling out between $1,500 to $3,000 to replace the entire outdoor unit
By wrapping your head around these dynamics, you not only prep yourself to defend your AC but also ensure that your space remains the perfect temperature to beat the summer heat, no matter what your dog throws its way.
But how do proactive pet parents prevent these issues in the first place? Let's talk about reinforcing your defenses.
Landscape with intent
Deploy strategic greenery or aesthetic barriers around your AC unit. This not only wards off canine curiosity but also preserves optimal airflow—critical for your unit's battle against the heat. Choose flora tough enough to bounce back from a doggy encounter, ensuring your landscape stays sharp and functional.
Train with purpose
Carve out a specific zone in your yard for your dog’s breaks. A mix of consistent training and positive reinforcement can steer them to stick to this new potty spot. Plus, keeping your walks on a tight schedule reduces the odds of your backyard becoming the default relief area.
Wall it off
Erect a simple yet stylish fence around your AC unit—a picket or chic lattice can work wonders. This barrier should balance form and function, providing enough clearance for air to flow freely and for hands-on maintenance while simultaneously keeping the area paw-free.
Schedule check-ups
Keep your AC’s performance in check with routine inspections. A tech-savvy eye can spot early signs of wear and manage them before they escalate into budget-busting repairs. Regular TLC for your AC not only prolongs its life but also boosts efficiency.
By adopting these savvy strategies, you’re upping your home’s cool factor and increasing the lifespan of crucial gear. When you share your home with pets, it's all about turning proactive protection into a lifestyle.
Lizz Caputo is the Manager of Content Strategy at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.
