Allergy season in Florida can impact the health of residents in many ways, causing minor irritations such as sneezing and watery eyes or serious health concerns such as asthma attacks. Mayo Clinic recommends strategies for minimizing exposure both inside and outside, especially when area pollen counts are particularly high. Although limiting outside activity can help, it is also important to keep the indoor air as clean as possible. Read on for some important ways to guard against allergy triggers in the home.
Air Filter Management
A high-efficiency filter can reduce the presence of particulates in the air supply of a residence. A MERV 9 to MERV 12 filter is ideal for superior filtration. It is important to make regular air filter changes to ensure that optimum filtration continues. As excessive dirt begins to collect in the filter, it can increase the energy needed to treat and circulate air. A dirty filter also ceases to remove particulates after it becomes saturated. Ideally, a homeowner should check the filter’s condition on a monthly basis.
For more helpful resources on air filters, check out these blogs:
Why Is My Air Filter Wet?
How to Replace Your Home’s Air Filter in 3 Easy Steps
How to Make Scented Air Filters
Preventive Maintenance of the Air Conditioning System
Allergens and other pollutants can collect in the air handler, clogging evaporator coils and the drain pan. This can be a breeding ground for additional allergy-causing materials, including mold. Preventive scheduled maintenance prior to the cooling season includes cleaning of these system parts for improved indoor air quality. An Energy Savings Agreement with us will ensure that your air conditioning maintenance is scheduled and at an exclusive, members-only price.
Dirt, dust, pet dander and mold can collect in the air ducts impacting the quality of air in the home. A thorough cleaning every few years is important for removing these materials. Because this involves specialized equipment, a homeowner should enlist the help of an HVAC professional for optimum results. Also, be aware that while you may want to open the windows to get some fresh air, this can actually allow pollen to seep deeper into your home, so try to keep them, and doors closed as much as possible.
Ultraviolet light can kill both mold and bacteria, preventing the return of these allergy-provoking irritants after coils and ducts are clean. A UV lamp also improves the efficiency of an air conditioning system by enhancing the movement of air through cleaner coils and ducts.
How UV lights in air conditioning systems work:
Climate Design Is Ready to Help with Additional Air Purification Solutions
Climate Design offers preventive maintenance services to ensure that Tampa Bay residents are prepared not only for the active cooling season but also for times of heightened allergy difficulties. In addition to maintenance support, Climate Design also provides recommendations and equipment for improving residential indoor air quality. Contact us now to learn more.