Your HVAC Can Help with Allergies
We see it in Sacramento every year. No matter the season, spring, or summer, we’re always plagued by allergies that linger in the air and unfortunately, in our noses. But what if we were to tell you that your HVAC system can help keep seasonal allergies at bay? It’s not a myth, it’s actually something you can do in your own home. The best part, it doesn’t take that much. With a little bit of know-how, and some professional help, you can use HVAC to prevent allergies.
The Connection Between HVAC and Allergies
If you, or someone in your home, suffers from seasonal allergies or asthma, your HVAC system can play a key role in their health. Some of the most common allergens—pollen, pet dander, and mold—can be floating through the air without you even realizing it. Your HVAC system gives air, and everything in it, momentum to move throughout your home and into your body. If you suffer from allergies, they can be made worse by neglecting your HVAC system.
Change Your Air Filter
If you’re worried about allergies, or suffering from asthma, the first thing you should do is replace your air filter. Any air that flows through your home first passes through the air filter. Depending on how big your system or home is, that’s a lot of work for a small piece of equipment. At Bell Brothers, we recommend changing your air filter every 90 days. However, factors such as pets, sensitivity to allergies or excess dust and debris may require you to change your air filters more often.
Ask an Expert About MERV Filters
For many allergy sufferers, a traditional air filter isn’t enough. If you think this is the case, it’s time to ask one of our HVAC technicians about a MERV filter. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, which is a system used to evaluate how strong an air filter is based on how many particles it can catch. The higher the MERV rating, the more air contaminants it’ll filter. At the lowest level, a MERV filter can stop pollen, dust mites, dust, and carpet fibers from circulating your home. A midrange MERV filter will catch mold spores and hair spray. At the highest level, a MERV filter can grab bacteria and most tobacco smoke.
Invest in a UV Filtration System
For the cleanest indoor air possible, we recommend a UV light solution. Our favorite product is called an Air Scrubber. This system purifies air as it flows through your system. The UV light is placed directly in your ductwork, just past the air filter, and works as an extra level of purification. The device essentially “scrubs” and cleans the air of any airborne contaminants and pathogens.
Dust Your Return Vent
Sometimes the simplest of tasks can be neglected. If you see any visible dander or dust lurking in your air vent, wipe it off. It would also be wise to include dusting your return vents as part of your weekly or monthly cleaning routine. This small task can help alleviate some issues with allergies and asthma.
Above All, Schedule a Tune-Up
One of the best things you can do to manage seasonal allergies with HVAC is to schedule twice yearly tune-ups. One during furnace season, and one during AC season. During a tune-up an expertly trained Bell Brothers technician will conduct a thorough 30-point inspection and professional cleaning. During this appointment, the HVAC technician will inspect and clean all parts of your system, offer to change your air filter, and ensure your home has the cleanest air possible. Additionally, this will ensure your system is running at maximum efficiency.
Want to Learn More? Call the Experts at Bell Brothers
At Bell Brothers, we pride ourselves on expert and precise care. From online customer service to in-home installations, we cover it all with grace and understanding. We’re “The No Surprise Guys,” which means we’re passionate about getting you all the information you need upfront to make a fair, rational decision. Don’t hesitate to call us at (916) 226-9677 or click here to request an appointment online.