While you may not realize it, your home’s HVAC system plays a huge role in alleviating allergy and asthma symptoms. When working properly and efficiently, the system can help improve indoor air quality and reduce allergens. In fact, there are even accessories you can purchase for your HVAC system that will boost indoor air quality further. If you want to boost your HVAC system to alleviate allergies and asthma, there are several easy steps you can take.
Prevent the Most Common Indoor Allergens
There are several sources of indoor air pollution. The most common allergens found in your home include cockroach droppings, pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander. The air filters in your HVAC system are specifically made for trapping these allergens when they are in the air. However, they may still affect you – or someone else in your home – resulting in an allergic reaction or an asthma attack.
Even more important is that your HVAC system may harbor mold or mildew, which may make its way into your indoor air when the AC system cycles on and off. This is why investing in annual maintenance is so important, especially for someone who suffers allergies or asthma.
Start with the System Filter
Because your system’s air filter is an essential player when it comes to reducing indoor allergens, you need to purchase a quality filter that can trap even the smallest particles. The effectiveness f your air filter is measured using the MERV rating, which is a minimum efficiency recording value. The MERV ratings range from one to 20, with the higher numbers providing the most filtration.
When you are buying an air filter, you should choose a high-efficiency filter that will alleviate the particles that trigger your allergies. Most of the higher-efficiency filters will be rated from a level of 14 to 16. This range will remove very small particles, but they aren’t as effective as the HEPA filters, which are rated from 17 to 20. However, unless your system has been designed or updated for using HEPA filters, you should not use them. That’s because the higher filtration value will result in more stress on your system.
Air Purifiers Can Help
While a centralized HVAC system will work well with medium to high-efficiency air filters, you can also add on an air purifier that includes a HEPA filter, which is the best option for trapping the allergens that a HVAC system can’t handle alone. If you or someone in your home suffers from severe allergies or asthma, then installing a whole home air purifier is a smart move. It can help everyone in your house – even those who don’t have asthma or allergies – breathe easier.
As you can see, there are several steps you can take to help ensure your HVAC system works as efficiently as possible. If you want more information, contact Beebe Heating & Air Conditioning. They can help ensure you take the proper steps to have clean, problem-free air in your home.