Spring is finally here, and unfortunately for many allergy sufferers, so are pollens—floating through the air and making us sneeze and wheeze. Fortunately, with the proper HVAC care, you can breathe easier. In this month’s blog, Main Stream Mechanical shares seven HVAC maintenance tips for reducing allergens in your home.
Breathe Easier with Regular HVAC Maintenance
Regular HVAC maintenance can reduce the amount of allergens in your home. By following these seven steps, you can improve your indoor air quality:
1. Purchase high-quality air filters.
Before buying a new or replacement filter, it’s important to note that not all filters are created equal. Filters are classified by a standard of measurement used to rate the filter’s effectiveness. MERVs or Minimum Efficiency Recording Values range from 1 to 20, with 20 providing the highest level of particle filtration. Use an air filter with a maximum MERV rating that’s compatible with your HVAC system and meets your household needs. Choosing a filter that’s rated too high for your system capacity can cause air flow problems and may lead to system damage. The chart below notes MERV ratings and some of its related applications.
2. Change your air filters regularly.
Air filters minimize your exposure to allergens from your HVAC system. However, a clogged or dirty filter won’t trap debris or tiny allergen particles. Be sure to change your air filter every two to three months, or more frequently if your system is used often.
3. Keep your AC units clear of debris.
Your outdoor AC unit pulls air from the outside through your HVAC system, and into your home. Regularly clear away debris and all weeds from around the outside unit to reduce excess allergens from being pulled into your home.
4. Look for mold.
Mold can have a negative impact on your indoor air quality (and your health). Frequently check your ducts, condensate drip pan and drain, evaporator coils, and air handler for mold. Installing a dehumidifier can definitely help control moisture levels.
5. Dust air registers and return vents.
Dust accumulates on air registers and vents, and gets pulled into the air that is circulating in your home. To reduce these allergens and improve your indoor air quality, dust your registers and return vents using a damp or treated rag to keep particles from kicking up into the air.
6. Install a whole house air filtration system.
When spring allergens are taking a toll on your family’s health, standard filters may not provide the clean air an allergy or asthma sufferer needs. A whole house air filtration system is another option for improving your indoor air quality. Consult with the home comfort specialists at Main Stream Mechanical to learn about the benefits of installing one.
7. Schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment.
Regular preventative maintenance keeps your system operating efficiently and helps reduce indoor allergens. Spring is a great time to schedule a seasonal tune-up of your HVAC system. The home comfort specialists at Main Stream Mechanical will ensure your air conditioning system is operating smoothly and efficiently, and address any concerns you have.
HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire
A service check by a home comfort specialist from Main Stream Mechanical can help ensure your HVAC system is ready to help you stay comfortable and breathe easier this spring. Contact Main Stream Mechanical for your HVAC service appointment today. We install, maintain, service, and repair residential commercial heating, cooling, and plumbing systems in Haverhill, Amesbury, Newburyport, Rowley, Topsfield, Boxford, and other Massachusetts locations and throughout Southern New Hampshire.