Sneezing? Itchy eyes? Scratchy throat? Chances are seasonal allergies are affecting someone in your home and HVAC issues can trigger or worsen all kinds of allergy symptoms. That’s because while your HVAC unit is in heating or cooling mode, it’s also filtering and circulating air throughout the house.
HVAC systems can spread allergens such as dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, and pollen throughout your home, making seasonal allergies difficult to manage. These simple tips from Jack Hall Plumbing & Heating’s experienced HVAC technicians will help homeowners optimize indoor air quality for the whole family.
Keep Vents and Ducts Clean
If you take a close look at your vents and air returns, you’ll find at least a little buildup of dust and potential allergens. When the HVAC kicks on, these particles go airborne and can trigger allergy symptoms. Use a vacuum to clean the vents and returns, then wipe down the surrounding area with a damp cloth to pick up any remaining dust.
Choose the Right Air Filter
You can’t just buy a generic HVAC filter and expect it to effectively combat allergens in your home. Installing the right high-efficiency particulate (HEPA) or minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) filter can make a big difference; however, it’s important to make sure the filter is compatible with your HVAC unit. High efficiency filters trap more dust and allergens, but if they are too dense, they can impact airflow, making the system work harder, often leading to a burned-out blower motor. Questions? Contact the Jack Hall team, and we can help you find the right filter solution.
Use a Smart Thermostats to Minimize Allergen Exposure
Programmable thermostats are an effective tool to reduce allergens in the home. By setting a smart thermostat to hold the same temperature all day, you can avoid big temperature swings that stir up dust and allergens. Another strategy is to program the HVAC fan to “circulate” for 10 to 15 minutes per hour to pull more allergens out of the air by filtering it more often than just when the unit is running. Smart thermostats can also prevent dust mites and mold by managing humidity levels, and some models even remind you to change the filter.
Stay on Track with HVAC Maintenance
If your HVAC system isn’t running efficiently, it’s not reducing allergens in your home. At every maintenance call, Jack Hall’s experienced technicians inspect HVAC components, not only to ensure they are working properly, but to check for and remove any built-up dust or debris – especially on the condenser coil. Our techs are also on the lookout for mold because the warm, moist environment in HVAC systems makes them susceptible to mold growth. Mold spores can easily go airborne, triggering allergies and other health issues.
Consider a New HVAC System
Upgrading your HVAC is one of the most effective ways to reduce allergens in your home. Modern systems include zoned systems, whole-home dehumidifiers, and even UV-C light systems. Even a standard HVAC upgrade without any additional equipment will make a world of difference when it comes to fighting allergies. If you’re thinking about an HVAC replacement, call Jack Hall at 518-792-7114 or contact us online for a free estimate.
Reliable HVAC Maintenance, Repair & Replacement in Glens Falls, Saratoga, Queensbury, and Lake George
Many of our customers struggle with allergies related to indoor air quality issues stemming from their HVAC systems. At every maintenance or repair call, Jack Hall’s experienced technicians can identify problems, repair damaged components, and recommend a game plan that will improve air quality throughout your home. Contact us today to learn how our team can help everyone in your home breathe easier in no time.