6 Tips to Reduce Allergies This Spring

Even with our year-round sunshine, Denver winters can start to feel kind of long. When spring rolls around, we want to throw open the windows and get outside more, so it’s frustrating when allergies foil our plans.

Surprisingly, your indoor air quality may be a bigger culprit in aggravating your allergies than the outdoor air! With a little attention and proper HVAC maintenance, however, you can greatly reduce the allergens in your home.

Here are six important tips to help you breathe easier:

1. Do your spring cleaning.

Pay particular attention to areas you may have missed during routine cleaning. Dust the heat registers and return vents in each room (clean these first), as well as fixtures and ceiling fans. Vacuum upholstery and drapes. Use a damp or treated cloth when dusting to avoid kicking up dust particles and dust mites while you work.

2. Have your air ducts professionally cleaned.

Dust, dirt, mold and other contaminants can collect in your ductwork. Because your HVAC system is continuously recirculating air, those contaminants build up and can severely compromise your indoor air quality.

3. Change your furnace filter.

This simple step helps ensure that the air circulating in your home is clean. Regularly replacing filters also keeps your furnace functioning properly and reduces maintenance issues. Choose high quality air filters for allergy reduction and best performance.

4. Clear the area around your HVAC unit.

The outside AC unit can get clogged with dust, dirt and debris. Keeping the area around it clear prevents those things from getting pulled into yourhome. Pruning trees and controlling weeds cuts down on the allergens that find their way inside. Sweep, dust and vacuum around the indoor unit to keep it free from dust and debris as well.

5. Consider installing an air cleaner.

The experts at IAQ can advise you on the benefits of air cleaners and help you choose the right model.

6. Schedule a spring HVAC maintenance appointment.

Not only will this help keep your indoor air clean, regular maintenance ensures that your unit will function properly when you switch from heating to cooling, and prevents costly surprises.

The transitional nature of spring and fall can be a challenging adjustment. IAQ can help you smooth that transition with an optimally functioning HVAC system. Call us today!