Fortunately, you can manage this problem by changing a few habits. Here are some top tips for dealing with allergies from the AC.

Why Do Air Conditioning Allergy Problems Happen? 

Let’s first understand why we get allergic reactions because of the AC. 

It all boils down to poor indoor air quality. If the air inside your home has too many contaminants, you put your health at risk when you breathe them in. Furthermore, the air quality will continue to be poor since your AC keeps circulating pollutants throughout the house.

Common allergens that affect air quality include: 

• Dander: If you have furry or feathered pets at home, they could shed tiny flakes of skin called dander.

• Pollen: Pollen from outside can get carried by the wind into your home, especially during the spring. 

• Mold Spores: Mold thrives in damp or humid spaces. Mold spores can spread inside your home with excess indoor moisture.

• Dust Mites: These tiny bugs live in dust, which can accumulate virtually anywhere. Dust mites thrive where it’s damp or where there’s insufficient airflow. 

How to Deal with Allergies from AC systems

Now that we know why the AC causes your allergies, let’s discuss how you can manage this problem at home: 

Replace the Filters Regularly

Replacing your AC filters is always part of any HVAC maintenance to-do list, and for a good reason. The filters catch dust, dander, and other contaminants, so the AC doesn’t circulate them into the rooms. However, once the filters are too clogged, the AC could blow them back into the air. 

As a rule of thumb, you should change the filters at least every 1-3 months, depending on how heavily you use the AC. 

Consider Getting an Air Purifier

Besides replacing the filters, you could also install an air purifier. These devices can capture particles in the air, including allergens, and neutralize them. While portable types are more common, there are also permanent purifiers that contractors can install directly into the HVAC system.

Check Indoor Humidity Levels 

We’ve mentioned earlier that mold thrives in humid areas since it needs moisture to grow. To reduce mold spores in your home, be sure you set the HVAC’s humidity levels around 35 to 50 percent. This moisture level will inhibit mold growth.

Houston can be extremely humid, especially during the warmer months. Consider having your local HVAC service install a dehumidifier to maintain the humidity levels better. 

Clean Your Home Regularly

You’ll also want to keep your home clean to limit the number of contaminants circulating in the air. Some of the actions you can take include:

• Vacuuming your carpets often. Carpets are very good at trapping dander, dust, bacteria, and other pollutants. Alternatively, you can remove all the carpets at home. 

• Wiping off dust from the floor and furniture.

• Washing drapes, curtains, and bedding in hot water regularly to kill off the mites.

• Decluttering your home to prevent dust accumulation.

Schedule an HVAC Maintenance Check 

Regular air conditioning maintenance is vital to keeping your AC system in good condition and avoiding untimely replacements. However, professional HVAC services don’t just check for issues and perform tune-ups. They can also deep clean the AC system, including outdoor units, ducts, and vents. This helps remove the allergens from hard-to-reach parts. 

HVAC service companies typically perform checks at least once or twice a year. Still, you should call your service provider if any problems arise outside the schedule.

Let a Professional Handle Your AC Needs

Say goodbye to allergies from your AC with John Moore’s professional AC maintenance in Houston. With over 50 years of experience serving homeowners throughout the area, you can trust us to ensure that your air conditioning system stays clean and in good working order year-round. And, if you need a new HVAC system installed at home, our team is equipped and qualified for the job.