HVAC
IAQ in Colorado Springs, CO

Springtime should be about fresh air and sunshine, not nonstop sneezing and itchy eyes. If you or your family suffer from allergies, you know how frustrating it can be when pollen, dust, and pet dander make their way inside. You might not have a say about what’s in the air outside, but you can make a difference in the air you breathe indoors.

Upgrade Your HVAC Filter for Cleaner Air

Your HVAC system is like the lungs of your home, pulling in air and circulating it throughout every room. But if your filter isn’t doing its job, you’re just recycling the same allergens over and over again. A standard filter might catch larger particles like dust and pet hair, but pollen, mold spores, and other tiny allergens can slip right through. Upgrading to a high-efficiency filter can make a big difference.

Look for filters with a MERV rating of 11 or higher, as they’re designed to trap smaller particles that a basic filter would miss. If you suffer from severe allergies, a HEPA filter may be the way to go since it captures even the tiniest pollutants. Just remember to check and change your filter regularly. Once it gets clogged, it won’t do much to keep allergens out of your air. If you notice more dust buildup around your home or feel as though your allergies are worse than usual, it might be time to swap it out.

Keep Humidity in Check to Limit Mold and Dust Mites

Humidity plays a bigger role in allergies than you might think. If your home is too damp, it becomes a breeding ground for mold and dust mites, two common allergy triggers. Mold grows easily in damp spaces such as bathrooms, basements, and even within your HVAC system, while dust mites love warm, humid conditions. On the flip side, air that’s too dry can irritate your sinuses, making allergy symptoms even worse.

A good balance is key. Ideally, your home’s humidity should be between 30% and 50%. If you’re not sure where you stand, a simple humidity monitor can give you a quick reading. If levels are too high, using a dehumidifier can help pull moisture from the air. If the air feels too dry, especially in the winter months, a humidifier can add just the right amount of moisture to keep you relaxed without making mold grow.

Air Purifiers for Allergy Sufferers

Even if you have a great HVAC filter, an air purifier can provide another layer of protection against allergens. These devices work by pulling in air, trapping tiny particles, and then releasing cleaner air back into your home. Some models even use UV light or activated carbon filters to neutralize bacteria, viruses, and odors for drastically improved indoor air quality.

If you’re thinking about getting an air purifier, choose one with a HEPA filter, which traps at least 99.97% of tiny airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. That means pollen, pet dander, and even some mold spores don’t stand a chance. Keep in mind that placement matters. Having one in your bedroom can help you sleep better at night, while a unit in the living room can improve air quality where your family spends the most time.

Duct Cleaning Can Help Limit Allergens

Your home’s air ducts are out of sight, but they shouldn’t be out of mind, especially when it comes to allergies. Dust, pet hair, and even mold can build up inside the ducts over time. Whenever your HVAC system kicks on, it stirs up those particles and sends them right back into your living space.

If it’s been years since your ducts were last cleaned (or if they’ve never been cleaned at all), you might want to consider having a professional take a look. Signs that your ducts might be due for a cleaning include increased dust buildup around vents, musty smells when the air kicks on, or worsening allergy symptoms at home. While regular duct cleaning isn’t something you need to do every year, keeping your vents clear of dust and debris can go a long way toward improving your indoor air quality.

Keep Windows Closed on High-Pollen Days

Fresh air is great, but when allergy season hits, opening the windows can invite a wave of pollen into your home. If you’re sensitive to seasonal allergens, it’s best to close the doors and windows, especially on days when pollen counts are high.

Instead of relying on outside air, use your HVAC system to circulate and filter the air inside. A high-quality filter combined with an air purifier can help trap allergens before they settle on your furniture, floors, and bedding. If you love the feeling of fresh air, consider ventilating your home early in the morning or after a rainstorm when pollen levels tend to be lower.

Regular Cleaning Keeps Allergens Under Control

Dust, pet hair, and other allergens don’t just float in the air; they settle on surfaces, carpets, and bedding. Regular cleaning can help cut down on the number of irritants in your home. Vacuuming with a HEPA filter traps more allergens than a standard vacuum, and using a damp cloth instead of a dry duster helps prevent dust from becoming airborne.

Exposure can be cut down by washing blankets once a week in hot water to remove dust mites, and using allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses adds another layer of protection. If you have pets, brushing them frequently and keeping them off beds and chairs can also help clean the air.

Maintain HVAC System To Keep Air Quality High

A well-maintained HVAC system does more than just keep you comfortable; it plays a huge role in indoor air quality. If your system is running inefficiently, it may not be filtering air as well as it should. Dirty coils, clogged filters, and blocked vents can make it harder to remove allergens from your home.

Scheduling regular maintenance ensures your system is working properly and keeps air circulating efficiently. A professional can inspect your system, clean out buildup, and make sure everything is running at peak performance. If your allergies flare up when your AC or heater is on, it might be time for a check-up to see if your system needs cleaning or an upgrade.

Plants and Indoor Air Quality

Houseplants can add beauty to your home, but they can also make problems with indoor air quality worse. While some plants help filter toxins from the air, others can collect dust or encourage mold growth in overly damp soil. If you love having greenery indoors, make sure to choose low-allergen plants like snake plants, bamboo palms, or peace lilies.

Keeping plants dust-free and avoiding overwatering can prevent them from becoming a source of allergens. If you notice increased allergy symptoms after adding plants to your home, consider moving them to a different room or reducing the number you keep indoors.

Get Better IAQ Today

Managing indoor air quality during allergy season doesn’t have to be a losing battle. At Alphalete Plumbing Drain Heating & Air in Colorado Springs, CO, we offer full HVAC services to maintain your home comfort. If you’re ready to take control of your indoor air, contact us today to find the best solutions for your space.

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