Set Up Your HVAC System To Help Prevent Allergies This Spring

Your HVAC system filters and circulates air throughout your home. If your HVAC system and air filter is kept clean, your air conditioner and furnace could be used to help keep your home's air free of pollen, dust and other allergens. The following tips will help you set up your home's HVAC system to clean your home's air.

Change Your Home's Air Filter Regularly

Your HVAC system's air filter will clean the air as it flows through the system. The EPA recommends changing the air filter at least every 3 months; however, replacing the filter more frequently can help ensure its efficiency and effectiveness. To be on the safe side, get in a regimen of replacing the air filter on a monthly basis, or whenever the air filter shows signs of being dirty.

To replace the air filter, turn off the air conditioner or furnace, then remove the filter from the slot. Often HVAC air filters are found in the space between the return air duct and the blower. After removing the filter, take it to the hardware store or home improvement center to find another filter of the same size. Put the new filter in the slot where the old filter used to be, then turn back on the air conditioner or the furnace.

Clean the Air Ducts

Your home's air ducts can fill the air with dirt and mold if the ducts themselves are dirty. You'll be able to tell if your home's air ducts are dirty by watching for warning signs such as:

• Your home gets dustier when your HVAC system is running.
• You and your family members experience more allergy symptoms when the furnace or the air conditioner is on.

You can also check the air ducts for dirt by removing the cover from one of your vents and shining a flashlight inside. If the air duct needs to be cleaned, you'll likely see a thick blanket of dust inside. If your air ducts are dirty inside, seek air duct cleaning service from an experienced and reputable HVAC repair person. He or she will be able to remove all dust, mold and pollen from inside your air ducts.

Once you've done the above steps, you can help keep your home's air clean by running the climate control in your home and keeping your windows shut. Your home's HVAC system will run air through your clean ducts and through the filter, and when the air pours out of your ducts, it should be clean and fresh.