When we think of allergy season, most of us picture blooming flowers and pollen-filled breezes in the spring. But if you find yourself sneezing, sniffling, and rubbing your eyes as the leaves begin to turn, you’re not alone. Fall allergies are a real and frustrating problem, and the air inside your home could be the main culprit.
That’s right—your home, a place you assume is a safe haven from outdoor allergens, can actually become a trap for them. As you switch from running the AC to keeping the windows closed for warmth, you’re trapping all sorts of irritants inside. Dust, mold spores, and pet dander can build up in your ductwork and recirculate throughout your home every time your HVAC system kicks on.
Your heating and cooling system is essentially the lungs of your home, pulling air in and pushing it out. If those lungs are dirty, the air you’re breathing is dirty, too. This is especially important in the fall when the air is getting drier and we’re spending more time indoors.
What’s Lurking in Your HVAC System?
During the spring and summer, your air conditioner works hard to cool and dehumidify your home. This process creates a perfect environment for moisture and mold to build up inside your ductwork. When the weather cools and you switch to heat, that furnace blasts all those trapped mold spores and dust mites right into your living space.
Fall allergens like ragweed can also get pulled into your home through open windows and doors, where they then settle into your carpets, furniture, and—you guessed it—your HVAC system.
How a Clean System Can Help You Breathe Easier
Here’s how a professional check-up can make a huge difference for your fall allergies:
Duct Cleaning: Over time, your ductwork can become a highway for dust, pet dander, mold, and other allergens. Professional duct cleaning removes these irritants at the source, preventing them from being blown into your home.
Filter Replacement: This is the easiest and most important thing you can do. A clean filter acts as the first line of defense, trapping allergens before they can circulate. For allergy sufferers, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency filter, which can capture even smaller particles.
System Check and Maintenance: A professional technician can inspect your entire system to ensure it’s running efficiently. They can check for mold growth, ensure proper ventilation, and make sure your system is doing its job of keeping the air in your home clean and healthy.
Don’t let fall allergies keep you from enjoying the comfort of your home. A clean, well-maintained HVAC system is the key to breathing easier all season long.