Allergies? How Your HVAC System Could Be Making It Worse

If you or someone in your home suffers from allergies, you know how frustrating it can be – especially when symptoms don’t go away indoors. Many people assume they’re safe from allergens once they shut the windows and turn on the AC, but here’s the surprising truth:

Your HVAC system could actually be making your allergies worse.

At 4 Winds AC and Heating, we help homeowners breathe easier by identifying the hidden sources of poor indoor air quality. Here’s what you need to know, and what you need to do to fix it.

Dirty or Clogged Filters

Your HVAC filter is your first line of defense against airborne allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. But if it’s dirty or not changed regularly, it can’t do its job. Worse, a clogged filter can circulate those particles throughout your home.

Solution: Change your filter every 1 to 3 months. For allergy sufferers, consider a high efficiency filter (like a HEPA or MERV 11+ rated filter) that captures finer particles.

Dusty Ductwork

Over time, dust, debris, and even mold can build up inside your ducts. Every time your HVAC system kicks on, it blows those allergens right into your living spaces.

Solution: Schedule professional duct cleaning if it’s been several years – or if you’ve recently done home renovations, which stir up a lot of dust.

Poor Humidity Control

Humidity plays a big role in air quality. High humidity encourages mold and dust mites – two major allergy triggers. Low humidity can dry out your sinuses and make you more sensitive to airborne particles.

Solution: Use a whole home humidifier or dehumidifier, depending on your climate and season. Ideal indoor humidity is between 30-50%.

Mold in Your HVAC System

Moisture buildup in your air conditioning unit or ductwork can lead to mold growth. If your system smells musty when it runs, it’s a red flag that mold could be present.

Solution: Have your system inspected and cleaned by an HVAC professional. We can check for moisture issues, clean out buildup, and recommend mold resistant solutions.

Improper Ventilation

Modern homes are tightly sealed for energy efficiency, but that also means indoor air gets trapped and allergens build up. Without proper ventilation, you’re essentially recycling stale, allergen-filled air.

Solution: Consider installing an ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) or HRV (Heating Recovery Ventilator) to bring in fresh air while maintaining energy efficiency.

How to Allergy-Proof Your HVAC System

Upgrade Your Air Filter: Not all air filters are created equal. Look for filters designed to capture allergens, and replace them on schedule.

Schedule Regular Maintenance: A professional HVAC tune up ensures your system is clean, efficient, and not contributing to allery symptoms.

Clean Air Ducts: Especially if you’ve never had them cleaned or if someone in the house has severe allergies.

Add an Air Purifier: Whole home air purifiers can trap allergens, kill bacteria, and even neutralize odors.

Control Humidity: Use a humidifier in winter and a dehumidifier in summer to keep moisture levels balanced.

Breathe Easier with Help from the Pros

You don’t have to suffer through another allergy season. At 4 Winds AC and Heating, we offer indoor air quality solutions that go beyond just heating and cooling. From air filtration upgrades to humidity control and duct cleaning, we’re here to help you breathe easier all year long.

Your health starts with the air you breathe. Let’s make sure your HVAC system helps, not hurts, your home environment.