Can Your Air Quality System Handle Fall Allergens?

Living in Northern Virginia means you get to enjoy stunning scenery throughout the fall. However, for those with allergies, the seasonal pollen and mold can be a major problem. Having an HVAC system that filters out allergens will make a big difference in reducing symptoms and improving your overall comfort. Is your heating and cooling system ready to keep up with your air quality needs this autumn?

Common Fall Allergens That Impact Indoor Air

Virginia sits in a part of the country that experiences heavy pollen and fluctuating humidity during the fall. This is mostly due to its location between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Coast. Ragweed pollen from surrounding fields can make its way into your home on shoes, clothing, and pets. Breathing the pollen in may trigger your allergies, leading to sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. Mold and mildew from damp leaves during the fall are another problem you have to watch out for. Keeping the yard raked may help reduce buildup, but you must be careful. You don’t want to stir up the spores and aggravate symptoms. To prevent this from happening, wear a mask when raking to avoid inhaling the allergens. Be sure to change your clothes as soon as you go back inside to prevent spreading allergens indoors. When you turn the furnace on for the first time each year, it can stir up dust mites. Wiping down all air vents and registers will help. However, our professional maintenance service includes cleaning the inside of the system. This removes the dust that settled when the heater was not in use, preventing it from being blown into your home. The less dust there is floating around the home, the better the air quality.

Signs Your Air Quality System May Be Struggling

Knowing when to schedule HVAC service is a crucial step in achieving cleaner air. Here are the top signs to watch for:

• Frequent sneezing or irritated eyes while inside
• Visible dust collecting quickly on furniture and floors
• Persistent musty or stagnant smells throughout rooms
• Uneven airflow or weak ventilation in certain areas
• Excess humidity leading to condensation on windows
• Family members experiencing worsening allergy symptoms

How to Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality

There are several proactive steps you can take to reduce harmful airborne pollutants in your home. These tips also help the HVAC perform more efficiently and last longer:

• Swap out old HVAC filters for higher-rated MERV
• Maintain or add HVAC air purifiers, including UV lights
• Run a whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier when necessary
• Keep air vents, ducts, and registers clean and dust-free
• Seal gaps or cracks around doors and windows to block allergens
• Schedule professional HVAC inspections and cleanings at least once a year

Benefits of a Professional Indoor Air Quality Inspection

Our experts understand the different factors that impact indoor air quality in Northern Virginia. We make it simple to address allergy and humidity issues so you enjoy cleaner air for the whole family.

• Spot potential weaknesses in your HVAC setup
• Optimize airflow to keep filters working efficiently
• Provide tailored recommendations for your household needs
• Reduce allergen buildup, such as pollen and dust
• Achieve better humidity control year-round

Why Trust McCrea Heating & Air Conditioning for Indoor Air Quality

McCrea Heating & Air Conditioning brings decades of expertise in HVAC and indoor air quality to every project. You can use our maintenance plans and affordable upgrades to create healthier living spaces throughout every season. Our A+ rating on review platforms like Angie’s List reflects our dedication to delivering exceptional customer service. Learn all about the different fall allergy solutions available in Warrenton by contacting McCrea Heating & Air Conditioning today.

FAQs

Q1: What are the most common fall allergens in Northern Virginia?

Fall often brings allergy flare-ups from ragweed pollen, moldy leaves, and dust mites. When your HVAC’s filtration isn’t strong enough, it won’t capture these elements if they drift indoors.

Q2: How often should I replace my HVAC filter during allergy season?

Change the filter every one to two months during high-pollen months, like October and November. HEPA filters and those with a MERV rating of 11 or higher will provide the best protection against allergens.

Q3: Do I need a professional indoor air quality test every year?

Yes. An annual indoor air quality test tells you whether you need to update your HVAC air purifier, filters, or ventilation system. Making these upgrades before fall can significantly reduce allergy flare-ups, leading to a healthier home.