While many people anticipate the spring season, others dread it due to seasonal allergies. If you’re among the latter, improving your home’s indoor air quality can help reduce common symptoms of seasonal allergies. In today’s post, heating and air conditioning contractor Air Quality Heating & Air Conditioning shares tips on how to keep springtime allergens out of your HVAC system and maintain good indoor air quality.
What Causes Spring Allergies?
Many types of plants release seeds and pollen in the spring as part of their reproductive cycle. At about the same time, people with pollen allergies begin exhibiting symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes and nasal congestion. In some areas, certain environmental factors cause pollen and other airborne particulates that trigger allergies to stay longer in the air – and make their way into indoor spaces.
How to Keep Allergens Out of Your HVAC System
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to keep springtime allergens out of your HVAC system.
- Keep the windows closed. It’s good practice to regularly open the windows to let in fresh air, unless you’re susceptible to seasonal allergies. To prevent these allergens from making their way into your air conditioner and recirculating in your home, keep the windows closed in the meantime.
- Change the air filters. Air filters trap dust, pollen and other indoor air pollutants before they can make their way into your HVAC system. Standard air filters get filled to capacity about every three months. Clogged air filters can impede airflow and reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency, as well as allow airborne allergens into your home. Make it a point to regularly inspect your HVAC system and replace the air filters at the beginning of every season.
- Have your air ducts cleaned by professionals. Your home’s air duct system delivers conditioned air from your heating and cooling systems to each individual room. A small amount of indoor air pollutants may make their way into the air ducts and accumulate over time. Some of these may come loose and recirculate in your home. This is why it’s important to have the air ducts professionally cleaned every five years or so. Professional duct cleaners can also seal leaks in the ductwork, which can further improve your HVAC system’s cleanliness and efficiency.
Call Air Quality Heating & Air Conditioning for Your HVAC Needs
Air Quality Heating & Air Conditioning is your leading provider of HVAC services and is a factory-authorized dealer of Carrier heating and cooling systems. Give us a call at (408) 920-3910. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in San Jose and the surrounding communities.