More than 50 million Americans live with seasonal allergies every day. If you’re one of them, you are well aware of how important air quality can be. Did you know that a well-maintained HVAC system can be a powerful weapon against the allergens inside your home? Here are some tips to help you get started!
- Clean Your Air Ducts
During the fall and winter months, your HVAC system keeps the temperature comfortable inside of your home by sending heated air to every room. If the ducts in your system are full of allergens and airborne contaminants, these will be spread everywhere too.
A trained professional can remove the buildup from your ducts and improve air quality inside your home. Not only will you breathe easier but your HVAC system will run more efficiently, which can save you money on your energy bill and prevent premature wear and tear.
- Replace Furnace Filters
Stop allergens and pollutants before they even get a chance to circulate within your home by investing in a high-quality furnace filter. A qualified expert can give you guidance on which one to choose based on your unique needs.
Since filters work by trapping pollen, allergens, mold and other contaminants, they need to be replaced on a regular basis. Creating a service or maintenance plan with a trusted HVAC team can simplify the process and keep the air in your home clean.
- Invest in a Humidifier
Most of us can agree when a room feels too cool or too warm but how often do we think about the humidity levels inside of our homes? In certain climates, including Virginia, indoor air can become too moist, creating an environment where allergens such as mold and mildew can thrive.
Alternatively, if the air inside of your home is too dry, your risk of contracting an illness can increase. In fact, there is evidence that the flu virus lasts much longer when humidity levels are low. A good HVAC system, equipped with a whole home humidifier, can help protect you from contaminants that may impact your health.
- Air Purification Systems Work
You can’t put a price on wellness and, if you’re an allergy sufferer or have asthma, installing an air purification system can be a life-changing decision. While you can definitely purchase smaller units for use in a single room, investing in an air purification system will protect your entire home.
A certified HVAC professional can assess the air quality inside your home and make recommendations based on the results while considering your specific needs. Even if you live in a newly built home, it’s worth having a free consultation as leftover debris from construction can build up and create problems.
- Keep Your Home Clean
There are many ways in which you can keep your home clean in order to improve indoor air quality and reduce the burden on your HVAC system. Choosing a vacuum with a HEPA filter, for example, can help reduce the amount of allergens, dust and pet dander.
Removing your shoes and changing your clothes when you enter your home can dramatically decrease the amount of pollen you track into your home, as well. Also, while it’s great to get some fresh air circulating once in a while, keep your windows closed most of the time to keep contaminants out.
The fall season is already well underway and cold and flu season is just beginning. This is a great time to take action to protect your health and improve your indoor air quality. Follow these tips to make sure you’re on the right track to surviving fall allergy season, then contact us for a free consultation with one of our NATE-certified technicians!