Spring weather is approaching in Spokane, WA, making it the perfect time to prepare your HVAC system for allergy season. If you’re prone to allergies, you know how inconvenient and unpleasant it can be to deal with symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes. Rest assured, there are steps you can take to prepare your HVAC system for spring allergies. When pollen levels start to rise outside, you can head indoors for relief.
Check Your Filter at the End of Every Month
Air filters prevent dust and debris from damaging the internal components of your heating and cooling system. However, they also play an essential role in maintaining a high level of indoor air quality by capturing airborne contaminants that would otherwise recirculate through your living spaces.
Experts recommend replacing your HVAC system’s air filter at least every three months. This timeframe may vary depending on factors such as how many people live in your house, whether you have pets, and how often your system runs. Many homeowners inspect their filters once a month to ensure they know when it is time for a fresh one.
You may also want to consider upgrading the type of filter you’re using. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective it will be at removing particulate matter from your indoor air. However, MERV-rated filters that have a rating above 12 can often be too restrictive for residential HVAC systems. You can consult an HVAC professional to determine the best filter for your system and indoor air quality needs.
Have a Whole-Home Air Purification Installed
Indoor air can often trigger allergies more than outdoor air, as allergens and airborne contaminants can become trapped inside. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor levels of pollutants may be two to five times higher than outdoor levels. While HVAC filters help remove some particulates, upgrading to a whole-home air purification system can provide more effective filtration.
A professional technician installs a whole-home air purifier by incorporating it into your HVAC system, typically within the ductwork near the air handler. This setup allows the purifier to treat all the air circulating through your home. Depending on the model, the installation may involve mounting a filtration unit, UV light, or electronic air cleaner within the system. HEPA filters can trap fine particles like dust, pet dander, and pollen, while activated carbon filters help remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can affect indoor air quality. Once installed, it continuously works to reduce airborne contaminants, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment in your home.
Don’t Forget To Schedule Maintenance Annually
Scheduling annual HVAC maintenance before spring allergy season ensures your system is in optimal condition to handle the season’s challenges. This maintenance includes cleaning internal components, which helps improve indoor air quality by removing dust, debris, and allergens that may enter your ductwork.
A professional will also inspect all system components to make sure everything is functioning properly. During the appointment, they can address minor issues, such as worn fan belts, to prevent costly repairs down the road. By preparing your HVAC system ahead of allergy season, you’ll avoid emergency breakdowns and ensure cleaner air for your home. Our Maintenance Agreement includes scheduling reminders, discounts, priority service, and more.
Keep Your Windows Closed
During allergy season, keeping your windows closed is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the number of allergens entering your home. Pollen and other outdoor particles can easily drift indoors through open windows, overwhelming your HVAC system and decreasing the air quality inside your home.
In addition to keeping your windows closed, adjusting your thermostat can help maintain optimal air quality. Running your air conditioner during the day and your heater at night during spring’s variable temperatures helps remove airborne allergens. It’s unnecessary to overwork your HVAC system. However, small adjustments to your temperature settings will reduce the concentration of pollutants in your home.
Contact Your Local HVAC Professionals
At Sturm Heating & Air Conditioning, we have been serving the residents of Spokane, WA, and the surrounding areas since 1945. We can perform routine maintenance to prepare your HVAC equipment for the spring allergy season. Additionally, we offer indoor air quality services, including the installation of whole-home air purifiers. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced technicians.