Do you suffer from allergies? You’re far from the only one. It’s estimated that an incredible 50 million people living in the USA share this issue, making allergies one of the leading causes of chronic illness nationally.
Seasonal Allergy Symptoms
At this time of year, allergies may be triggered. Spring has a lot of positive connotations: longer days, blooming flowers, and gentle rain showers, but for allergy sufferers it can be a period of exacerbated symptoms.
You’ll know you have seasonal allergies if your eyes are itching and watery, your nose is running, you’re sneezing more, you feel tired, and you’re suffering from headaches. You may have suffered all your life or this may be a recent development; don’t assume just because you’ve never had allergy symptoms before that you’ll never have them in your life!
HVAC Systems: Ally or Enemy?
HVAC systems can be a real ally to allergy sufferers. Used correctly, they can reduce the causes and alleviate allergy symptoms. However, if your system isn’t adequately optimized, it could equally just be blowing allergens around your home!
Beehive Heating and Air technicians offer the following advice for people who want to allergy-proof their HVAC.
- Keep your air vents and floor registers clean. Otherwise, dirt, pet hair, and other debris will accumulate. This has an impact on your air quality. You can vacuum your vents and registers then use mild soapy water and a rag to clean them.
- Change your filters regularly. Every 90 days, you should replace your HVAC filters. This ensures the functionality of your system. You can change them more often during allergy season.
- Use filters with a high MERV rating. MERV stands for Maximum Efficiency Reporting Value. If you have allergies, look for a MERV rating of around 10 to 14. The higher the rating, the more capable it is of filtering pollen, mold spores, and pet dander.
- Keep your exterior AC unit clean. Throughout fall and winter, leaves and other debris will have built up around your unit. Now is the time to clean the condenser by carefully vacuuming around it. You should also clear the vegetation around the unit.
- Ensure vents and air intakes are clear. Any furniture or object blocking your vents or intakes will impair their functionality. Free them from obstructions for maximum efficiency.
- Deep clean your air ducts. Professional services such as ours are available to remove all the mold, dirt, and bacteria from your system. It’s difficult to eradicate this from the inner workings on your own.
- Supplement your system with a purifier. HVAC systems should do a great job filtering allergens out of the air, but if you need additional support, consider purchasing an air purification system.
- Perform vital maintenance. To guarantee your system is working at its best, call Beehive Heating and Air to check it. We can identify and resolve any issues, creating a more comfortable atmosphere for allergy-sufferers.
Your health is too important to let suboptimal HVAC affect it. Contact Beehive Heating and Air today for help preparing your system for allergy season.