The home's HVAC system provides clean air throughout the property to keep your indoor spaces comfortable. If you have seasonal allergies or are sensitive to dust, hair, and pet dander, you might wonder how to alleviate symptoms. With the help of an HVAC contractor, you can upgrade the home's heating and cooling system to provide allergy relief, and below are several common methods.

How Can Your HVAC System Reduce Allergy Symptoms?

1. Clean Vents Regularly

After heating or cooling the air, fans blow it through the ductwork and vents in the residence. Over time, dust and debris may accumulate on the vents, entering the air whenever the HVAC system turns on. If you inhale these particles, you may experience itchiness, postnasal drip, and difficulty breathing. Vacuum the vents with a handheld brush attachment once a month to remove any buildup, and then wipe them with a microfiber cloth to eliminate residual debris. 

2. Change & Upgrade the Filter

Air conditioning units and heating systems use filters to remove allergens and pollutants from intake air. This prevents most contaminants from reaching the rest of the home. However, when debris clogs these screens, the purified air may pick up the excess dust and circulate it, leading to allergy flareups.

You can prevent this by changing the filter each month. For extra protection, upgrade to a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which features fine mesh that can remove more than 99% of common indoor allergens, such as dust, pollen, and mold spores.

3. Control Humidity 

Elevated humidity levels in indoor areas create a favorable environment for mold growth. When you inhale the harmful spores from these fungi, you might experience runny nose, sneezing, and coughing. If mold spores enter your eyes or land on your body, they can cause itchiness and rashes. Ideally, the indoor humidity level should remain between 30% and 50% to prevent growth. An HVAC contractor can install a whole-home dehumidifier to your existing unit, ensuring you remove moisture before it can cause problems.

If you need help updating the HVAC system to reduce allergy symptoms, contact Dowler Heating Cooling & Refrigeration. These HVAC contractors provide cooling and heating installations, repairs, and maintenance to clients throughout Athens, OH. Call (740) 662-1614 to request an estimate on HVAC repairs or a replacement unit, and visit the website to learn more about their services.