With temperatures warming up, Arizona is in bloom. While wildflowers and citrus trees are a colorful addition to our desert landscape, they release tremendous amounts of pollen. For allergy sufferers, this can mean miserable sneezing, watery eyes, wheezing, and coughing. While allergy medication can help curb symptoms of seasonal allergies, it’s important to keep in mind the significant role your home’s HVAC system has in the air that you breathe. Depending on how you maintain your home’s system, your symptoms could improve or be exacerbated.
Indoor Air
Air filters are a first line of defense against bacteria, viruses, pollen, dander, and other particulates that can circulate in your ductwork and indoor air. Although replacing your HVAC air filter is important all year long, this easy maintenance task is especially vital during hay fever season. It’s always a good idea to replace your system’s filter at least once a month through the end of spring.
MERV Filters
Clogged, dirty air filters not only increase the cost of your energy bill; they also restrict air flow and degrade the air quality in your home. A MERV filter can capture larger airborne particles between .3 microns to 10 microns. The best MERV air filters for your home will have a rating between 8 to 16. The higher the rating, the better the MERV filter is at trapping specific types of particulates. Make certain that your HVAC system is turned off for your safety prior to changing out your dirty air filter.
HEPA Filters
The quality of the air you breathe has a huge impact on your health. If you or family members suffer from significant allergy symptoms or respiratory conditions, like asthma or COPD, consider adding a HEPA filter that can remove even more of the particulates that lead to symptoms. The U.S. Department of Energy defines these high-efficiency particulate air filters as removing at least 99.7% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of .3 microns. Our experienced technicians can discuss more about this option.
Get Ready for Spring
Spring is almost here, and pollen is in the air. Don’t let allergic symptoms prevent you from making the most of the season. Schedule a spring tune-up and we’ll be happy to replace your air filters and checkout your entire HVAC system, so you’ll be ready for spring’s rising pollen count and warmer temperatures. Why not call Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating today? We’re available anytime of the day or night at 480-968-5652.
