Have you ever noticed when you start your heating for the first time in the fall, you’re sneezing more than usual? While spring allergies often get a worse reputation, fall allergies are still very common and many people struggle with them. For some, fall allergies can be even worse than spring thanks to temps impairing our immune systems and from starting up our equipment. This could leave you thinking, can furnaces make allergies worse in the U.S., or even cause them?
While furnaces can’t create allergies, they could aggravate them. How? During the summer months, dust, dander and other pollutants can build up in heating ducts. When the cold temps arrive and we switch our heating on for the first time, all those allergens are now distributed through the ductwork and move through our houses. Luckily, there are things you can do to stop your furnace from worsening your allergies.
Allergies and recurring illness can be annoying, and it can be tough to learn what’s creating or worsening them. Here are some extra FAQs, including answers and suggestions that can help.
Allergy sufferers are usually told that forced air heating might irritate your allergies even more. Forced air systems can circulate allergens through the air, leading you to breathing them in more frequently than if you used a radiant heating system. While it’s correct forced air systems might make your allergies more severe, that is only if you ignore appropriate maintenance of your furnace. Other than the things we listed previously, you can also:
H2: What is the Top Furnace Filter for Allergies?
In general, HEPA filters are ideal if you or someone in your family struggles with allergies. HEPA filters are rated to filter 99.97 to 99.99% of particles, such as dust, pollen and dirt. These filters have a MERV rating of 17-21, depending on the type. This rating illustrates how thoroughly a filter can take pollutants from the air. Due to their high-efficiency filtration materials, HEPA filters are thick and can reduce airflow. It’s helpful to contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to ensure your heating and cooling system can run correctly with these high efficiency filters.
Old filters can harbor particles and allow poor quality air to circulate. This also applies to filthy vents. If you inhale these particles it can cause sneezing, coughing or other asthma-related issues, depending on your sensitivity.
It’s beneficial to swap out your HVAC filter after 30-60 days, but here are some indications you might need to more frequently:
Your health and comfort are our greatest priority at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Whether it’s furnace repair now.
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