With more than 50 million Americans suffering from allergies, it is a daily struggle to try and mitigate the symptoms. While the severity of these allergies varies from person to person, many suffer from a runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, a persistent cough, or other cold-like symptoms. However, many homeowners have not considered that their HVAC system may contribute to this vicious cycle. For this reason, we have compiled a list of tips you can use to optimize your HVAC system’s capacity as an allergy reliever as opposed to an allergy inducer:
To tackle indoor allergies, the first place to start is your air filters. While air filters help trap pollen and other allergens brought into the home from outside, they also keep indoor air clean from pet dander, mold, and dust mites. Failing to replace air filters at least once a month can result in dirty and contaminated air circulation. In the long run, you want to keep your air filters operating at maximum efficiency and capacity. Allergy sufferers can even consider upgrading to high-efficiency air filters if they have the financial means to do so. In addition, air filters are evaluated according to their Minimum Efficiency Recording Value (MERV). With a MERV score of at least an 8, your air filters should be able to capture microscopic particles.
Since air filters can sometimes miss dirt and particles, investing in an air purifier or ionizer could also be an effective way to remove allergens from your HVAC system. Whole-home air purifiers are ideal for people with asthma and severe allergies to ensure that every room in the home circulates high-quality air. To find an air purifier that will best suit your individual needs, consult an A/C specialist for recommendations.
Dust is a common allergen that travels alongside other triggers such as pet dander and pollen that can get stuck in your air vents. By dusting off and cleaning your air vents once a week, you are allowing clean air to circulate throughout your home. If you have wood floors, consider dusting even more frequently.
Over time, humidity and moisture can lead to the growth of mold, bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens. When these allergens make their way into your home through the vents, windows, and doors, they multiply and spread throughout the entire living quarters. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines, indoor humidity levels should remain around 25-40%. As a preventative measure, try running the air conditioning system to regulate the humidity within your home. If this doesn’t work, consider adding a dehumidifier to clear the moisture. Additionally, new technological developments such as UV lighting can stop the spread of mold and bacteria within HVAC systems.
At the end of the day, it is your responsibility to schedule time for cleaning your home and conducting routine HVAC maintenance appointments. Your HVAC system can be your best weapon in the fight against allergies, but only if you keep up with proper cleaning and maintenance.
