Finding the right HVAC system is all about optimizing your home’s comfort. That also applies to anyone who suffers from allergies. You may think you only have to worry about them outdoors. However, there are a number of ways allergens get in your home. Unhealthy air could be due to pets, carpets, damp areas, humidity, and dust. But the right HVAC system should make a big difference. Read on below to find out more about the best HVAC systems for those with allergies.

Make Sure Your HVAC System Is Best for Allergies

The best way to eliminate allergies with an HVAC system is to go with the most powerful, reliable, and efficient one. This could mean you need to update your current system. Switching your older model for a high-efficiency one should make a big difference in and of itself. Before you make a major purchase, however, ask a licensed professional technician to do an inspection and a consult. The technician will be able to tell you if your HVAC system needs an update.

When looking for an updated HVAC system, consider models that are marked as energy efficient. You can do some research before shopping to see which HVAC system brands other allergy sufferers found helpful.

Best HVAC System Air Filters for Allergies

In addition to choosing the best HVAC system, be sure to get the best filters for allergies as well.

The best HVAC system filters for those with allergies are high-energy particle air filters, or HEPA filters. HEPA filters can trap at least 99.97 percent of pollen, dust, and other allergens. Another thing to look for when purchasing filters is the MERV rating. The best quality air filters will have a MERV rating of 20.

HEPA filters may not be able to be added to every HVAC system. However, they should work with one of the higher-efficiency models that are best for those with allergies. You can find an extended guide on the best types of air filters for allergies on the Aircetera website.

Air Filter Maintenance

One of the easiest, most effective ways to make sure your HVAC system works the best it can for allergies is to make sure to regularly clean and/or replace the filters. This should usually be done every two to three months. With HEPA filters, it is recommended to clean and/or replace them every other month. You also may have to change or clean filters more often if you have children and/or pets. Different HVAC systems and filters may have more specific instructions, so it’s important to read the manuals.

Unfortunately, many people can forget or overlook this step of caring for your HVAC system. That reduces the efficiency, which just allows more dust, dander, and other allergens to accumulate. The more efficient your HVAC system, the more helpful it will be for handling allergies.

Add UV Lights and Air Purifiers to HVAC System

For even more help with allergies, add on a UV air purifier with an ionizer to your home’s system. This is recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency and is a method to optimize your home’s indoor air quality. Make sure the air purifier has electrically charged HEPA filters for the best air quality.

UV light is great for HVAC systems, to eliminate bacteria, mold, and other bio-organisms. In addition to eliminating these allergens, UV also helps prevent harmful buildup in your HVAC system.

You can ask a professional to install a UV light to your HVAC system. Some central air units actually come with UV lights already installed. Or they will have a designated space to add one on.

HVAC Systems and Humidity

Moisture is one of the major allergens, along with dust and pollen. To reduce this allergen, install a dehumidifier in your HVAC system. But don’t go overboard. Not having enough moisture in the air is also bad for allergy sufferers. Usually, the recommended level is about 40 percent. It’s all about finding the perfect balance with your HVAC system.

Portable HVAC System Units

What if getting the best HVAC system along with these helpful add-ons still doesn’t stop allergy suffering? For some with allergies, it’s best to have a separate, portable, and smaller HVAC system unit in the room where they spend most of their time. This can include a window or mini-split unit.

While it may not be as effective at cooling, this will remove more allergens than just having one HVAC system for the whole house. It is also good to have in any rooms in your home that don’t get the central air.

When it comes to these smaller units, the best way to go is still to purchase the most energy-efficient models you can find.

Duct Cleaning Can Reduce HVAC Allergies

This is an HVAC service that you may need if you notice worsening allergies. There could be mold or other types of infestations in your ductwork. A technician will be able to check your ductwork for any debris, pollen, dust, dirt, mold, or other pollutants. They will also be able to check for holes or tears and repair them as needed.

Importance of Annual Maintenance for Allergies

Having your HVAC system inspected and maintained at least once a year is essential. Preventative maintenance is key to keeping your HVAC system as efficient as possible at helping with allergies.

When you get preventative maintenance, it takes care of dirty coils, fan motors, blades, and more. This wouldn’t just make your HVAC system work less effectively. The dirt and dust that accumulate can really aggravate allergies. And this can also allow too much moisture in your home. In general, a poorly maintained HVAC system will accumulate a lot of condensation, moisture, mildew, and mold.

Technicians will be able to discover if there are any issues that are negatively impacting your HVAC system’s ability to control allergens.

For the best HVAC service in the Pacific Northwest, including for that annual preventative maintenance check-up, turn to us here at Entek. With decades of experience, you can count on our expertise when it comes to the best HVAC systems for allergies. You can find more information on our website.