Everyone looks forward to spring because it means winter is fading away and we all enjoy our open windows, allowing the fresh air of spring to sweep through our homes.  However, spring can be miserable if you suffer from seasonal allergies.   Allergens are airborne particles like pollen, dust, mold, and environmental fumes that are carried into our homes through the air.  Some of these invaders are unseen and unnoticed until they settle on furniture and other surfaces in your home.   Some symptoms related to allergens can be coughing,  sneezing, red or puffy eyes, itchy throats, and runny noses...  all of which is uncomfortable and interferes with the quality of air you and your family are breathing.   Did you know performing HVAC maintenance on your heating and cooling system can drastically reduce the amount of allergens throughout the home?

Simple Ways to Reduce Allergens 

Regular maintenance, especially AC maintenance in the spring, will remove a large portion of allergens already in the air of your home and will help keep new allergens from entering in. 

* First, clean/vacuum all registers and return vents weekly in each room;  use a damp or treated sponge when dusting to keep from stirring up dust mites and other particles.   It's easy to forget about the registers and return air vents, but remember, these carry and circulate all the air from the HVAC system, so if they are dusty and dirty, guess what's being circulated through your home?   Allergens. 

*  Filters are the first line of defense against poor air quality.  Check filters every month and replace as needed.  Every three months to replace is normally the average.   Remember, a dirty filter is no longer effective in catching those pesky allergens and will make your system and it's components work harder and it will be less efficient.

* Purchase high quality furnace filters;  make sure it is compatible and meets the recommendation of your system.  Filters that are too dense, may restrict air flow and interfere with the proper function of your furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump.

* Sweep and vacuum around your indoor furnace or air handler to reduce allergens in your system.  If dust and debris are around your indoor unit, it will circulate throughout your home.

* Check for signs of mold.  Mold thrives in moist environments. Check the ducts, condensate pan and drain, evaporator coil, and the air handler every few weeks.  Mold spores don’t just cause allergies, certain types of mold can cause sickness and even death if left unchecked.  If you find a considerable amount of mold, or are unsure of its type,  it's recommended to call a mold professional and have it properly treated.

* Schedule spring HVAC maintenance. Regular maintenance helps to keep your system clean and operating as designed.  A well maintained air conditioner, furnace, air handler, or heat pump has proven to reduce indoor allergens when serviced by a professional.  A clean heating and cooling system means cleaner, healthier air in your home.

Most  HVAC Contractors offer Annual HVAC Maintenance Plans or Tune-Ups to make sure your air handling equipment is operating as designed and ready for any season. 

If You're Ready For ALLERGEN  RELIEF… 

Contact ABLE Heat & Cool, LLC  636-528-4794 to schedule an early spring AC Maintenance. Missouri service areas include all of Lincoln County, and portions of Pike and St. Charles Counties. Find us on FaceBook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+ for more useful tips and information.