Is Your Home Triggering Allergies?

Few minor illnesses are as frustrating as respiratory allergies. Runny nose, watering eyes and wheezing, often accompanied by sinus issues and headaches, can make life miserable. While you cannot control the many outdoor triggers for allergies, you may find that you have some of your worst symptoms when you are at home. If you are experiencing respiratory allergy symptoms in your house, your home may be triggering your allergies.

Common Indoor Allergy Triggers

There are thousands of elements that can trigger allergies. Most people know the main triggers that will make them miserable. Beyond the pollen and outdoor allergens, there are many that can be confined inside your home. Some of the common indoor allergens include:

  • Pet hair and dander
  • Dust
  • Mold
  • Fragrances
  • Cleaning chemicals

Reducing cleaners that have fragrances and cleaning more often can help reduce allergens in your home. But if you are still experiencing allergy symptoms in your home, it may be your HVAC and air filtering system that is the problem.

If you are noticing more allergy symptoms when you are at home, consider getting an air quality evaluation. Many HVAC companies can provide air testing to evaluate the quality of your indoor air or an inspection of your HVAC system. This can include checking humidity levels which can lead to mold production. Other problems can include an insufficient air filtering system or dirty air ducts. Often, your HVAC system is to blame for circulating contaminants in the air throughout your home. Updating your filtration or humidity control options can eliminate many air quality control problems and limit allergy triggers.

If your home is making your sick with allergy issues, it may be time to have your HVAC system serviced. This can help make your home healthier and relieve you of your allergy symptoms.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
3870 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suite 340-129
Duluth, GA 30096
(770) 475-9555

How Often Should You Change HVAC Filters?

One of the most important DIY maintenance you can do for your HVAC system is ensure the air filter is kept clean. A dirty or clogged air filter can put extra stress on your HVAC system, causing it to work harder and be more likely to have system issues. Plus, air filters help improve the quality of the air in your home for the health of your family. So, how often should you change your HVAC air filters?

First, there is not a set rule on changing your HVAC air filter as each home and filter is different. An air filter manufacturer may say to change the filter every two months, which is a good rule of thumb, but not always accurate for all filters. Most 1-3-inch filters are suggested to change in two month intervals, but you should check the manufacturer recommendations for your filter.

Secondly, consider the environment. If you use your HVAC every day and have kids, pets and a full house, your air filter is working overtime. It may need to be changed more often than recommended. On the other hand, if you only have 1 person living in a big home and only use the HVAC system when you are home, the filter may not need to be changed for 3-4 months. The best advice? Check it regularly – if it looks dirty before it is scheduled to be replaced, switch it for a new one.

Changing the air filter is just part of maintaining your HVAC system. You should also schedule regular tune-ups and maintenance inspections 1-2 times a year. Your HVAC service tech will also check your filter and change it out if needed.

Posted on behalf of:
Western Aire Heating & Cooling
Marietta, GA 30066
(770) 505-7426

HVAC Tips for New Home Buyers

If you are looking to buy a new home this year, there are many factors that will affect your buying decision. While you may be more concerned with the size, location and curb appeal of the home, you also need to consider future maintenance. One of the largest expenditures for homeowners is the heating and cooling of the home. Before buying a new home, follow these tips to uncover any possible HVAC issues before you sign on the dotted line.

Ask About the HVAC System

You need to know what kind of HVAC system the home contains, how old it is and what maintenance has been done. Most HVAC equipment is very expensive, with furnaces and air conditioning unit costing up to $10,000 each. If the equipment is 10-15 years old or older, it may need to be replaced in the near future. Ask for all records of purchase and maintenance of the HVAC system.

Get an Inspection

Most likely you are not an HVAC expert and will not know if there is an issue with the HVAC system until you are living in the home. The best way to know the condition of the equipment such as the furnace, air conditioning unit, heat pump or duct work is to have a professional inspection performed. This is a worthwhile investment considering it could add $10,000-$20,000 on to the home’s purchase price if the system needs to be replaced soon.

The cost of a home ownership does not end after closing. Expenditures on monthly heating and cooling, plus HVAC repairs and replacement should all be considered when buying a new home. Talk to your local HVAC service provider to learn more about scheduling an inspection and what HVAC systems would be the most efficient for your new home.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
Marietta, GA
(770) 475-9564