How to Reduce Home Allergens

Home allergens can significantly impact your health and comfort, especially if you or your family members suffer from allergies or respiratory issues. Reducing allergens within your home is crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by optimizing your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system.

At Reliable Home Comfort, our experienced HVAC and indoor air quality technicians understand what it takes to reduce home allergens and keep homes allergen-free. We can walk you through the steps needed to minimize indoor allergens and create a healthier home.

Understanding Common Sources of Indoor Allergens in HVAC Systems

Allergens, such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores, often circulate through your home via the HVAC system. Over time, these allergens can accumulate within the system's components, reducing indoor air quality and potentially exacerbating health issues. Identifying these common sources is the first step toward effective allergen reduction.

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Reduce Home Allergens

Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is essential for improving air quality and system efficiency. Here’s how to get started:

• Schedule Professional Inspections: Have a certified HVAC technician inspect your system twice a year—typically in the spring and fall. They will clean and check components like coils, ducts, and vents.
• Clean Ducts and Vents: Ensure that ducts and vents are clean and free of dust and debris. This can prevent allergens from spreading throughout your home. This task is best left up to professional HVAC technicians.

Changing Air Filters

Air filters play a crucial role in capturing allergens and preventing them from recirculating. These are the steps you need to complete to properly change an HVAC air filter:

• Choose the Right Filter: Use a high-efficiency filter with a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating of eight or higher. These filters are more effective at trapping smaller particles, including allergens.
• Change Filters Regularly: Your HVAC filters should be replaced every 1-3 months, depending on usage and manufacturer recommendations. Dirty filters can reduce air quality and system efficiency.

Using High-Efficiency Air Filters and Air Purifiers

For added protection against allergens, consider using high-efficiency air filters and air purifiers. Here’s how air purifiers and high-efficiency air filters can help reduce home allergens:

• Install HEPA Filters: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can capture up to 99.97 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns. These filters are highly effective for allergy sufferers.
• Add Air Purifiers: Portable or whole-house air purifiers with HEPA filters can provide additional allergen removal, especially in areas where you spend the most time.

Tips for Reducing Allergens Beyond HVAC Maintenance

In addition to HVAC maintenance, there are other strategies to reduce allergens in your home.

Keeping a Clean Home

• Regular Cleaning: Vacuum carpets and upholstery regularly using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Dust surfaces with damp cloths to prevent allergens from becoming airborne.
• Pet Care: Bathe and groom pets frequently to reduce dander. Keep pets out of bedrooms and off furniture to minimize contact with allergens.

Managing Humidity Levels

• Use Dehumidifiers: Dehumidifiers help maintain indoor humidity levels between 30 and 50 percent. This helps prevent mold growth and dust mites, which thrive in high humidity.
• Fix Leaks: Repair any leaks around windows, doors, and pipes promptly to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.

By following these tips, homeowners can significantly improve indoor air quality and enjoy a more comfortable, allergen-free home.

Need Help with AC Maintenance & Repair in Los Angeles? Contact Reliable Home Comfort Today!

In Los Angeles, Reliable Home Comfort boasts a team of licensed and certified technicians who have been providing top-notch HVAC services since 2018. You can relax knowing your system is in the hands of experts. Our friendly staff will ensure everything is running smoothly, from regular filter changes to maintaining peak performance, all year round. This not only optimizes your unit's efficiency but also reduces allergens in your home.