For many people, allergies are a way of life; seasonal allergies, pet allergies, dust allergies – all sorts of things can trigger an allergy attack. And for those who suffer from allergies, it’s essential to do everything possible to reduce the allergens in their environment. If you suffer from allergies, you know how crucial a clean environment is to your respiratory health.
But did you know that your HVAC system can be a significant source of allergens? Your HVAC system is one of the main culprits in your home that collect dust, debris, and other allergens from the environment. Your HVAC system is a magnet for dusty, allergen-filled air conditions and circulates dirty air throughout your home.
If you don’t find a way to remove these allergens from the air, you will be miserable. So what can you do to reduce the allergens in your HVAC system? In this article, we’ll discuss how homeowners and HVAC technicians may lessen the allergens in your home’s HVAC system.
What Are The Main Sources of Allergens Indoors?
There are many sources of allergens indoors, but homeowners shouldn’t give up; there are ways to control indoor allergens by cleaning and reducing them in your home.
- Bedding
- Indoor plants
- Soft Furniture
- Lots of Carpet
- Pillows and Bedding
- Stuffed Toys
- Bedding
There may be more surface allergens than there are allergens in the air. You see, surface allergens can enter the air when you dust or sit down. With so many culprits, how does one tackle them all?
General Tasks Homeowners Can Do to Help Their HVAC System
Suppose you move into a previously owned home and have encountered an excessive amount of allergens like dust, dirt, mold, or pet dander floating in the air or on the surfaces of furniture, kitchen counters, ceiling fans, etc. In that case, you need to get it cleaned immediately. It may take time, but there are things you can do as a homeowner to put your home on the path to cleanliness.
Change Your Filter Regularly
One of the most important things you can do to reduce allergens in your HVAC system is to change your filter regularly. Depending on your filter type and the allergies in your home, you may need to change your filter every month. But even if you don’t have severe allergies, it’s still a good idea to change your filter every few months to keep the air in your home clean and allergen-free.
If you’re unsure how often to change your filter, check the manufacturer’s recommendations or ask your HVAC technician. They’ll be able to tell you how often you should be changing your filter based on the type of filter you have and the level of allergens in your home.
Clean Your Vents and Ductwork Regularly
Clean your vents and ductwork regularly. Over time, dust and other allergens can build up on top or on these surfaces, which can then be circulated through your home when you turn on your HVAC system. To prevent this, you must clean your vents and ductwork at least once a year – more often if you have severe allergies or multiple pets in the home.
Many companies offer vent and duct cleaning services if you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself. Or, if you’d prefer, you can ask your HVAC technician to clean them for you during their next visit. Either way, just ensure that these surfaces are kept clean, so they don’t circulate allergens throughout your home.
Consider Upgrading Your Air Purifier
If you have an older model air purifier, it might be time to upgrade to a newer model better equipped to handle the allergens in your home. In addition, older-model air purifiers might not be as effective at removing allergens from the air, so if you’ve been using one for a while and haven’t seen any improvement in your allergy symptoms, it might be time for an upgrade.
There are all sorts of air purifiers on the market these days, so do some research before purchasing one. Talk to your HVAC technician about which air purifier would be best for reducing allergens. Avoid models that generate ozone as part of the cleaning process; look for a model with a higher Clean-Air Delivery Rate (CADR). The higher the number, the stronger the purifier cleaning power.
Add an HVAC UV Light
One of the best things you can do to reduce allergens in your home is to add Ultraviolet (UV) light to your HVAC system. UV light effectively kills mold, mildew, dirt, and anything else that causes your issue, which can cause allergies. The UV bulb in the system is proven to eliminate approximately 99% of all microorganisms living in your HVAC system. Using one of these devices in your HVAC may also save you money.
Use a Dehumidifier
If the humidity in your home is over 40%, you run the risk of mold and mildew. Not only are these two things unsightly, but they can also trigger allergies. A dehumidifier will help control the moisture level in your home and keep everyone healthy.
Vacuum Regularly
You should vacuum your carpets, rugs, and floors at least once a week – more often if you have pets. Use a vacuum with a High-efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter to trap as many allergens as possible. If you don’t have a HEPA filter, empty the vacuum’s canister or bag after each use to prevent allergens from being released into the air. It may also be best to source a certified asthma and allergy-friendly vacuum.
Call an HVAC Technician
An HVAC technician can do many things to help you reduce allergens in your home, including:
- Servicing Your HVAC Regularly – A technician should service the HVAC system twice a year: before winter weather begins and before summer starts. It’s best to hire a local specialist to examine your system closely. They can show you places that tend to accumulate mold, debris, and mildew and advise you on how to fix them.
- Install Better Equipment – If your HVAC is old and outdated, it might be time to install a new one. Newer models come with features that can help you eliminate allergens and improve air quality in your home.
Hire Your Local Coral Springs HVAC Company
If you’re looking for a reputable, professional HVAC company in Coral Springs, Lion Air Conditioning Cooling And Heating is here to help. We offer HVAC repair, installation, and maintenance services. We also provide air-quality products and services to improve the air quality in your home and reduce allergens. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
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