As spring arrives in Minnesota, so does allergy season, bringing the dreaded symptoms of sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. While you may not be able to control the pollen levels outside, you can minimize allergens indoors and create a sanctuary of comfort within your home. From maintaining your HVAC system to investing in air purifiers, here’s how to prepare your home for allergy season in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
1. Maintaining HVAC Filters:Â A crucial aspect of allergy-proofing your home is maintaining the filters in your residential HVAC system. These filters act as the first defense against airborne allergens, capturing dust, pollen, and other particles to keep indoor air clean. To ensure optimal performance:
Correct Filter Size: Start by using the correct filter size for your HVAC system. Most filters for residential HVAC systems are 1-inch thick, but some houses have up to 4-inch filters for a higher quality of filtration of air circulating in the home. Measure your existing filter or consult your system’s manual to determine the appropriate size.Â
Choosing Quality Filters: Opt for high-quality filters with a high Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating. These filters effectively capture allergens while maintaining airflow and system efficiency. Less expensive HVAC filters are just thin layers of fibers, oftentimes fiberglass. When you shop for HVAC filters, look for a model that is designed to capture microscopic particles, including bacteria, mold spores, and pollen. Those are the biggest causes of spring allergies.
Regular Replacement: Regularly replace your HVAC filters to prevent the buildup of allergens and maintain efficient operation. Aim to replace filters every three months or more frequently if needed, especially during peak allergy season. Have pets? You may need to change your filters more often. Check your filters every 60 days to ensure they are not clogged.
2. Whole-House Air Purification: Besides standard HVAC filters, consider installing a whole-house air purifier to enhance indoor air quality further, especially if you have a family member with respiratory issues like asthma. These systems work with your HVAC system to purify the air throughout your home, removing allergens, bacteria, and other contaminants. Look for air purifiers with HEPA filters for maximum effectiveness in capturing allergens.Â
Just make sure you purchase the proper size for your square footage. Look for a higher clean-air delivery rate (CADR) number. The higher the number, the stronger the air-cleaning power of your unit.
3. Preventive Maintenance: Before allergy season kicks into full gear, schedule a maintenance check for your HVAC system with a properly trained and certified professional service technician. This preventive measure can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate, ensuring your system operates efficiently throughout allergy season and beyond.
Preventive maintenance will also help make sure your system is running smoothly after the long winter.
During the maintenance check, the technician will:
Inspect all components of your HVAC system, including the air conditioner, furnace, and ductwork, to ensure they are functioning properly.
Clean and lubricate moving parts to prevent premature wear and tear.
Check refrigerant levels and recharge if necessary for optimal cooling performance.
Test controls and safety devices to ensure safe operation.
Verify airflow and address any obstructions or blockages in ductwork or vents.
By following these steps to prepare your home for allergy season in Minnesota, you can create a haven of comfort where you can escape the seasonal sniffles and enjoy the beauty of spring. From maintaining HVAC filters to investing in air purifiers and scheduling preventive maintenance, these proactive measures will help you breathe easier and live more comfortably, no matter what the pollen count outside may be.
Keep your home comfort system in tip top shape and running at it’s highest efficiency.
Schedule an appointment to learn more about preventive maintenance options today by visiting our contact page.