As the leaves begin to change color and the temperatures drop, many people look forward to the beauty and cozy vibes of fall. But the beauty of this season brings a new set of challenges—seasonal allergies. Fall allergies and indoor air quality go hand in hand, as ragweed, mold spores, and dust mites can be especially troublesome during this time of year. While outdoor air quality can trigger symptoms, your indoor air can also contribute to allergy discomfort if not properly maintained. Fortunately, A/C Masters is here to help you improve your home’s indoor air quality and keep your allergy symptoms at bay.
Fall Allergies
Fall allergens are a significant cause of seasonal allergies. In addition to ragweed, mold spores from decaying leaves and moisture can find their way into your home. Dust mites, which thrive in warmer temperatures, can become more problematic when you turn on your heating system for the first time in months, sending dust and other irritants circulating through your indoor air.
Common symptoms of fall allergies include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
- Coughing and wheezing
If you’re one of the many people who suffer from these symptoms, it’s important to ensure that your indoor air is clean and free of allergens.
How Indoor Air Quality Impacts Allergies
The quality of the air inside your home plays a major role in either reducing or exacerbating your allergy symptoms. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) allows allergens like dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander to accumulate and circulate, causing continual irritation. HVAC systems that are not properly cleaned or maintained can become breeding grounds for mold, bacteria, and other airborne allergens.
Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality in the Fall
Change Your Air Filters Regularly
Your HVAC system’s air filters trap particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. Over time, these filters can become clogged, reducing the efficiency of your system and allowing allergens to recirculate. A/C Masters recommends changing your air filters every 1-3 months to ensure that your indoor air stays clean.
Schedule Duct Cleaning
Dust and allergens can build up in your ductwork over time. When your heating system kicks on in the fall, these particles can be distributed throughout your home. Scheduling professional duct cleaning with A/C Masters can eliminate these buildups, improving both air quality and system efficiency.
Install an Air Purification System
To take your air quality to the next level, consider installing an air purifier. These systems work alongside your HVAC system to remove smaller particles that standard filters might miss, including bacteria, viruses, and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). We offer advanced air purification solutions that can significantly reduce the number of allergens circulating in your home.
Control Humidity Levels
Mold thrives in moist environments, making humidity control a key factor in improving indoor air quality. Keep humidity levels between 30% and 50% to reduce mold growth and dust mites. If your home tends to be humid, especially in the fall, consider installing a dehumidifier.
Clean Your HVAC Coils
Dirty evaporator coils can harbor mold and bacteria, which then get blown into your living spaces. A/C Masters can clean your coils as part of our regular maintenance services, ensuring that your system is free of contaminants that can aggravate allergies.
At A/C Masters, we understand how important it is to maintain healthy indoor air quality, especially during allergy season. With our professional HVAC services, including filter replacements, duct cleaning, air purification installation, and more, we can help you breathe easier and enjoy the fall season without the misery of indoor allergens.
If you are in the Yorktown, Newport News, Hampton, Gloucester, or Williamsburg area, contact A/C Masters today and take the first step toward a healthier home environment.