5 Easy AC Allergy Fixes to Help Alleviate Your Allergies
It’s a warm summer afternoon, and you’re lounging in your living room, basking in the cool breeze from your air conditioner. But wait-suddenly, your eyes start itching, your nose feels stuffy, and you can’t stop sneezing!
It’s the dreaded AC allergy strike, turning your chill time into a battle against pollen, dust, and other airborne irritants. But fear not – we’re here to help.
Let’s go through the top ac allergy tips and tricks.
1. Get an AC Tune-up
Arrange for annual or bi-annual HVAC inspections and tune-ups. During a professional AC tune-up, technicians will thoroughly clean and inspect various components of your HVAC system, including the air handler, evaporator coil, condenser coil, and ductwork. This cleaning helps remove accumulated dust, debris, and potential allergens that can circulate in the air.
Consider installing smart thermostats with air quality sensors. These devices can help monitor and control indoor air quality, including humidity levels, which is beneficial for allergy sufferers.
2. Clean and Replace Your Filters
Cleaning out your filters regularly will help you reduce common allergy syndromes.
Depending on your AC unit, the air filters can be located in different places. Common places to find them include inside the air handler unit, near the return air duct, or in a filter grille in a wall or ceiling.
If you spot any problems when you’re changing the filters, look into HVAC repair services.
3. Ventilate Properly
Use any exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathrooms to remove excess moisture, cooking fumes, and odors. This helps prevent mold growth and improves air quality.
Open windows and doors on different sides of your Missouri home to create cross ventilation. That will let fresh air circulate through your home and can help reduce indoor spring allergens.
Look around your home for any air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork. Seal any gaps to prevent outdoor allergens from entering and to improve energy efficiency.
4. Maintain Indoor Humidity
Maintaining indoor humidity levels is crucial for reducing allergens and creating a comfortable environment for allergy sufferers.
Start by monitoring indoor humidity levels using a hygrometer. Aim to keep humidity between 30% and 50% for optimal comfort and to discourage mold and dust mites.
If indoor humidity levels are consistently high, especially in areas like basements or bathrooms, use dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture from the air. Empty and clean dehumidifier reservoirs regularly to prevent mold growth.
Put moisture-absorbing items like silica gel packets or different desiccants in areas prone to moisture buildup, such as closets, cabinets, or basements.
5. Pay Attention to MERV Rating
MERV ratings are usually in the range from 1 to 16 (with higher ratings available but less common for residential use). The rating indicates a filter’s effectiveness at trapping airborne particles, including allergens.
For allergy relief, aim for a filter with a MERV rating between 8 and 13. This range is effective at capturing common allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores without significantly restricting airflow.
Use These AC Allergy Fixes Today
With these AC allergy tips, you’ll be feeling better in no time.
Are you looking for AC services in Southwest Missouri? Check out J & M Smith Heating and Air. We can service a huge variety of different HVAC equipment for an affordable price.
Contact us today.
