The spring season also brings colds and allergies. Maybe your allergies are triggered by pollen or sagebrush. Perhaps it is a pet dander making your eyes itch. Or maybe there are mold spores in the air causing you to sneeze and cough. Whatever the trigger, staying indoors can help alleviate allergies because of how the HVAC system works. A well-maintained HVAC unit that gets routine air conditioning and furnace repair in Cupertino, CA can reduce allergens in any home or business. Here are just a few ways you can use your heating and cooling to fight off allergies.
Swap the Air Filters
The main purpose of filters for the HVAC system is to keep dust and debris away from the mechanics. That said, the air filters also work to trap the majority of airborne allergens and pollutants. The filter’s effectiveness is measured using the minimum efficiency recording value (MERV). The range of MERV filters goes from 1 to 20, and the higher numbers offer the best filtration. Investing in a high-quality filter will trap even the tiniest particles. That said, when purchasing filters for your HVAC system, double-check the manufacturer’s guide to make sure the system is designed to handle the higher-range filters.
Try a Whole-Home Air Purifier
Not all HVAC systems are compatible with HEPA filters. These are air filters with a MERV rating between 17 and 20. So, to pick up where the HVAC system leaves off, you can invest in a whole-home air purifier. These are especially useful for anyone who suffers from asthma and severe allergies. In many cases, additional air scrubbing devices or purifiers can be installed in line with the HVAC unit.
Manage the Humidity in the Home
Mold growth often stems from excessive humidity. But air that is too dry can also increase the levels of allergens in the home. That is why it is so important for moisture levels to be kept in balance. And the presence of mold will only aggravate allergy symptoms. During warmer weather, the air conditioner actually helps remove moisture from the air. But what can you do during the spring, when the air conditioner isn’t running just yet? You might consider a whole-home humidifier. This will allow you to add appropriate moisture to the air to prevent mold growth but also prevent chronic nosebleeds, sinus infections, and even static electricity.
More Tips to Fight Seasonal Allergies
Here are a few other things that help prevent allergy symptoms indoors:
- Vacuum and dust once a week
- Keep windows and doors closed
- Shower and wash your hair before bed if you have been outside
- Wear a facemask while working on dusty projects or go outdoors around pollen
Be Sure to Get Regular HVAC Maintenance
Just as you should routinely take your car in for checks and oil changes, your HVAC system also needs regular service. Preventative maintenance keeps the system running effectively and efficiently. Technicians can keep the system clean to reduce allergens, spot problems early, and prevent emergency breakdowns. Call today to schedule your annual furnace repair in Cupertino, CA.
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