HVAC Mistakes That Worsen Allergies (And How to Fix Them)
Spring brings blooming flowers and warmer days. However, for people with allergies like rhinitis, it can also mean itchy eyes, sneezing, and a stuffy nose. Pollen and other allergens get a lot of blame.
However, your HVAC system might be making things worse. This is especially true if it is not well maintained.
In this blog post, HELP!! Air Conditioning and Heating discusses common HVAC mistakes. These mistakes can worsen allergy symptoms. We’ll also share how you can fix them.
If you’re searching “HVAC near me” for air conditioning, filtration, and heating needs, we’re the team to call. Contact us today to book an appointment!
1. Using the Wrong Air Filter
One of the biggest and most overlooked mistakes homeowners make is using the wrong HVAC filter. Basic fiberglass filters are designed to protect the HVAC system from dust, not your lungs from allergens.
How To Fix It
Switch to a high-efficiency filter with a MERV rating of at least 11 or 13. These filters can catch pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and some bacteria. This helps improve your indoor air quality and control your allergies. Just don’t forget to change the filter every 1–3 months, especially during allergy season.
2. Skipping Routine Maintenance
It’s easy to forget about your HVAC system when it’s working, until it’s not. Dust, dirt, and moisture can build up inside the system over time, circulating allergens throughout your home.
How To Fix It
Schedule seasonal HVAC maintenance, ideally in spring and fall. A skilled technician from our team will clean your unit.
They will check for mold or dust buildup. They will also make sure everything is working well. This service also helps prevent surprise breakdowns and can extend the life of your system.
Need help? At HELP!! Air Conditioning and Heating, our maintenance plans keep your system allergy-friendly and energy-efficient.
3. Neglecting Duct Cleaning
Even if your HVAC unit is clean, dirty ducts can act like allergy amplifiers. Over time, ducts can accumulate dust, mold, pet hair, and other allergens that get blown into every room.
How To Fix It
Have your ductwork inspected every few years. If there’s visible mold, dust clumps, or a musty smell coming from the vents, it’s time for professional cleaning.
4. Poor Ventilation
Air that’s trapped inside your home can become stale, humid, and filled with allergens. Without proper ventilation, allergens just keep circulating, making symptoms worse.
How To Fix It
Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans regularly and consider installing an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) to bring in fresh outdoor air while maintaining your HVAC system’s efficiency. This process is especially important during spring, when allergen levels spike.
5. Delaying HVAC Replacement or Installation
Older HVAC systems are often less efficient and can actually worsen allergy symptoms by recirculating dirty air. If your unit is more than 15 years old and struggling to maintain consistent comfort or air quality, it might be time for an upgrade.
How To Fix It
Talk to a licensed technician about your options. If you need to replace your HVAC system or install a new one in a renovated area, modern systems are a good choice. They offer better filtration.
They also help control humidity and reduce allergens. Searching for “HVAC replacement near me?” Contact us.
6. Ignoring Heating or Air Conditioning Repairs
A malfunctioning system can make your home a breeding ground for allergens. For example, a faulty A/C unit can allow humidity to rise, encouraging mold growth. A broken heater can do the same in colder months.
How To Fix It
Don’t put off repairs. Prompt heating or air conditioning repair can restore both comfort and clean air. When necessary, a brand-new HVAC system may be a better investment. If you’re looking for “HVAC installation near me,” we’re the team to call.
Contact HELP!! for Relief From HVAC-Related Allergies
If spring allergies are getting the best of you, your HVAC system might be part of the problem. At HELP!! Air Conditioning and Heating, we specialize in HVAC installation, HVAC replacement, heating repair, and air conditioning repair. More importantly, we know how to optimize your system for clean, allergen-free air.
Let us improve your comfort and your health. Reach out to HELP!! today and ask about our maintenance plans or schedule an inspection.
