Since spring is here, the pollen count will soon start rising. Dust, mold, bacteria, and other airborne contaminants will likewise increase, and people susceptible to allergies will again suffer symptoms. Below are some tips to help you use your heating and cooling system to improve indoor air quality.

How Your HVAC System Can Improve Indoor Air Quality

1. Controls Humidity

Damp air is an ideal environment for allergen growth. Mold spores, mildew, bacteria, and even dust mites thrive in humidity, which can lead to sneezing, itching, runny nose, and symptoms of asthma. One of the functions of air conditioning is to remove humidity, which not only makes temperatures feel cooler but also reduces allergen content. If you do not have a central air conditioning system, consider installing a whole-house dehumidifier to help allergy sufferers feel more comfortable.

2. Filters Indoor Air

Nearly all of the air that circulates throughout your house eventually gets cycled through the heating and cooling system where the HVAC filter removes many of the contaminants. To achieve ideal air quality, use a top-tier air filter. Filters have a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating between 1 and 20. The higher the number, the smaller the filtration pores, and the more efficient it is at removing particles. Choose an air filter with at least a 15 or 16 MERV rating and replace the filter every 60 to 90 days for optimal results.

3. Can Purify the Air

Whole-house air purifiers use the HVAC system to scrub the air before it ever runs through the furnace filter. These units are installed into the system’s return ducts and trap contaminants as they pass through. Some even utilize ultraviolet rays to destroy any bacteria and viruses that make it past the trap. Installation of whole-house air purifiers requires an experienced heating and cooling technician.

For more information about how your HVAC system can help alleviate symptoms of allergies, contact Combs Heating & Cooling, an experienced HVAC contractor in Chillicothe, OH. They are family-owned and -operated and have served Ross County for more than a decade. They offer 24/7 emergency service and specialize in HVAC installation as well as furnace and air conditioner repair. Explore their services on the website, or call (740) 772-2233 to schedule heating and cooling service.