Nearly 20% of people in the United States are allergic to pollen, ragweed, and other allergens commonly associated with spring. These allergy sufferers usually seek relief by staying inside, but indoor air pollution can present a threat if the HVAC system isn’t well-maintained. Whether you have seasonal allergies or experience symptoms because of pet dander, these maintenance tips can give your sinuses relief and prevent future air conditioning repairs.

How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Allergy Season

1. Use Quality Filters

Dirty filters restrict the airflow in your heating and cooling equipment and can put extra wear and tear on your system, leading to unnecessary air conditioning repairs. Also, dirty or low-quality filters can add pollen, dust, and ragweed to your indoor air, triggering your allergies.

By changing filters as instructed on the packaging, or at least once a month, your HVAC system can better filter out the allergens that make you ill. Purchase filters with a minimum efficiency recording value of 8 or higher to trap small particles.

2. Keep Your Ducts & Vents Clean

Your HVAC system pushes air through your home using ductwork, vents, and registers if you have central heating and air conditioning. Vents and registers are easy to overlook when you’re cleaning your home, but they often gather dust that can be dispersed back into the air you breathe. Vacuum these areas weekly as part of your routine cleaning.

3. Have Your Equipment Inspected Once a Year

An HVAC contractor can inspect your system and perform additional cleaning as needed. For example, the outdoor unit might need a thorough cleaning to remove grass and other debris from around the hardware. HVAC systems pull air from the outdoors, and pollen can infiltrate the unit. Having a professional inspect it annually will ensure your indoor air is free of any allergens.

Homeowners with allergies can breathe easier and avoid air conditioning repairs by working with Kool-Wave Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc. in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Their fully trained and licensed technicians specialize in installing and maintaining residential and commercial systems year-round. Call (928) 855-5665 to schedule an appointment or visit them online to learn more about their services today.