If you suffer from allergies, then you know that living in Moody, AL, can be a challenge. There is always something blooming and releasing pollen. Fortunately, there are many ways in which you can use your HVAC system to help improve your indoor air quality by removing common allergens.
1. Change the Air Filters
One of the easiest and least expensive ways to improve your indoor air quality is by paying attention to the air filters in your HVAC system. The air filter works by trapping small particles in the filter material and preventing them from entering the air system. This is beneficial to keep harmful and irritating pollutants from recirculating in the airflow, and it also prevents them from building up on the system coils.
As the particulates accumulate on the filter, it becomes more difficult for the air to flow through as it is being pulled in by the air system. This makes your HVAC system work harder for the same results. To keep your system running at its optimum efficiency, you should replace most air filters every quarter and more often if you have pets, or as needed.
Air filters are rated as to their ability to filter by their minimum efficiency reporting value or MERV rating. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the filter is at trapping small particles. MERV ratings of 16 and lower are considered suitable for residential use, and 17 and higher are categorized as HEPA filters for mostly hospital use.
Most filters with a MERV rating from 5-12 can be used with residential air systems, but you should consult the manufacturer’s recommended ratings. The higher the rating, the harder it is for air to pass through the fibers.
It is also important to ensure that your particular system can handle the added resistance of the air. Total Comfort Heating and Air provides maintenance services that include air filter replacement. We can offer guidance on the type you need.
2. Use an Air Purification System
Filtration is a good first-line defense against allowing irritating contaminants to circulate through your indoor air. However, your air filters will not catch all small particles. This is where an air purification system that works in tandem with your HVAC system is beneficial, as it not only removes more small particles but can also remove gases and biological microbes.
There are different types of purification systems, one of which is an in-duct system. This system is either installed as a return air system or a supply air system. A return air purifier is placed where the air is returned before being heated or cooled, and a supply air system is placed by the vent to purify the air before being dispersed through the home.
3. Clean the Ductwork
If you have an older home, your ductwork may have accumulated particulates that can potentially be dispersed into your home. If you are an allergy sufferer and you suspect that your ducts may be filled with dust and other small particles, then you can have an expert technician come to examine your ductwork and determine if it may need cleaning.
4. Regular Maintenance
Regularly scheduled maintenance is the glue that holds all these methods of improving your indoor air quality together. When you have an experienced technician come to your home and check your air system, you receive many benefits. The technician will check and replace your air filters, clean your coils if needed, run diagnostics, check the refrigerant levels and perform other maintenance checks.
This keeps your system running efficiently and also helps find small issues before they become larger problems. A thorough tune-up will keep your system’s filtration and purification components working effectively to clean your air.
Having a healthy home environment is important for you and your family. Removing the pollutants and allergens from your home will improve your health and increase your comfort. To learn how Total Comfort Heating and Air can assist you in improving your indoor air quality, give us a call today!
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