April and May Lead Way to a Higher Pollen Count
Pollen is nothing but trouble for those suffering from seasonal allergies. Both tree pollen and grass pollen can flare up allergies and give allergy-sufferers a miserable time. Typically, March and April see a rise in tree pollen, while May is more about grass pollen, depending on where someone lives.
These months are considered the beginning of allergy season, but those with allergies can take preventive measures to ensure that the threat of flareups is minimized and doesn’t affect the quality of their lives.
Investing in Air Purifiers and Air Scrubbers 
A good investment for someone suffering from allergies would be a whole-home air purifier. These devices work by capturing and removing most airborne particles that irritate allergies. However, a whole-house air purifier may not take care of the pollutants that have clung to the floor, walls, and other surfaces.
On the other hand, an air scrubber can work throughout the entire home and is often used in commercial properties. However, residential whole-house air scrubbers can be installed in the ductwork and will work to disinfect almost all of the air in a home. These systems work to eliminate air pollutants like pollen, pet dander, odors, and dust, both airborne and on surfaces.
UV Air Sanitizers and Dehumidifiers Are Also Helpful
UV air sanitizers and dehumidifiers have something in common: they help reduce and kill mold, which can cause allergies to flare up. Both systems have their benefits, and someone looking into purchasing one should do adequate research to determine which one would benefit them the best.
A UV air sanitizer can be either freestanding or installed into HVAC units for more proficiency. UV air sanitizers use short-wave ultraviolet light to help combat airborne pollutants such as mold, bacteria, and viruses. As the air passes through the UV lamps inside the air sanitizer, the airborne pathogens are deactivated, cleaning the air and making it safer to breathe.
Similarly, dehumidifiers work to eliminate mold, mildew, and dust mites to help those suffering from allergies breathe better. These systems work by drying out the air, which helps to keep pollutants that thrive on moisture away.
Scheduling Maintenance and Filter Replacement is Crucial
AC maintenance is important and should be conducted annually to keep the AC unit in good working order. HVAC systems are depended upon to keep homes comfortable 365 days a year. In wintertime, these units work to warm the air and keep homeowners from freezing, whereas in the summertime, these units have the opposite effect and work to keep the air cool on those hot summer days.Homeowners should understand how vital it is to have annual inspections on their HVAC units. Not only is it important for their comfort, but keeping a well-maintained system can help lower energy bills, keep the home safer, help the environment, and improve indoor air quality.
Air filter replacement is equally important and should be done every 90 days or less, depending on certain factors such as how much dust is in the home, if there are pets in the house and if anyone suffers from seasonal allergies.
Homeowners should be aware of the different air filters available to make the right choice when replacing their filters. Types of air filters include:
- HEPA Filters: These filters offer high levels of protection from various airborne pollutants and possess a MERV rating of anywhere from 17 to 20. However, these filters are not commonly made to fit most residential HVAC systems.
- Reusable Air Filters: Reusable air filters, while good in theory, have a low MERV rating and may not help fight against mold and mildew. Still, these filters are nice because they can be washed and used again.
- Flat-Paneled Fiberglass Filters: This filter is disposable and made with fiberglass and a metal-reinforcing grate. Like reusable air filters, flat-paneled fiberglass filters have a low MERV rating and will not help much with purifying the air.
- Pleated Media Filters: These last filters are disposable and usually have a MERV rating between 5 and 13. However, homeowners can opt to buy the high-efficiency pleated media filters, which increase the MERV rating to 14 through 16.
About The Meridian Company
The Meridian Company is a family business that has provided its neighbors in Lansing, MI, and the surrounding areas with full-service solutions since 1984. They offer fast response, tailored solutions, and superior customer service. Call them today for air conditioning maintenance in East Lansing, MI.
