Controlling Seasonal Allergies

The arrival of spring weather doesn’t offer relief from allergies. Pollen from spring’s budding trees is replaced by grass pollen and warm, humid weather invites mold, resulting in continued misery for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. In addition to self-care and steps you are taking indoors to help control allergens, you can make changes to your HVAC system to improve indoor air quality for you and your family. This is especially important if family members suffer from seasonal allergies, asthma, or other respiratory problems.

Here are some steps you can take:

• Keep Air Filters Clean: Dust, dirt, pollen, and other pollutants get trapped in your HVAC air filters, which keep them from entering the indoor air stream. When the filters are dirty and clogged, they can no longer purify the air, allowing allergens to escape into the duct system and through your vents and registers. You should change your air filters at least every three months, or more frequently during allergy season or if family members are experiencing allergy symptoms. You can also install special filters, such as HEPA or allergen-resistant brands.
• Clean The Ducts: Ductwork, vents, and registers that are dusty and dirty are a haven for pollen, pet dander, and mold. Keep the registers dusted using a microfiber cloth and consider professional duct cleaning by an HVAC specialist.
• Maintain A Consistent Humidity Level: Humidity is a breeding ground for mold, which is unhealthy for allergy sufferers. On the flip side, when it’s too dry in your home, it’s harmful to wood furniture and other household items, as well as contributing to dry skin and other discomfort. You might consider adding a humidifier or dehumidifier to your HVAC system (depending on your climate) to keep the humidity level at the optimal percentage year-round.
• Install A System-Side Air Filtration System: Air filtration systems can be installed inside your existing ductwork. One system, a UV scrubber, uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, mold, pollen, and other allergens. There are other types of whole-home air filtration systems to consider and your HVAC specialist can recommend the right one for your home.