Pollen can wreak great havoc on your allergies and your HVAC system. While pollen can be especially troublesome in the spring, it can impact your HVAC system year-round. However, there are some steps you can take to minimize the impact of pollen on your home.

7 Steps to Avoiding HVAC Pollen Problems

Find out what to do to avoid pollen problems in and around your home’s HVAC system.

Replace Your Air Filter

One of the most important things you can do to avoid pollen problems in your HVAC system is to replace your air filter. Pollen can build up in your filter and block proper air circulation. This can lead to numerous problems around your home. Your air won’t be cleaned by the filter as it should.

With a dirty air filter, your HVAC system will need to work harder to blow air around your house. This can increase the stress on your HVAC system and make a breakdown more likely. Replacing your air filter is an inexpensive way to extend your HVAC system’s lifespan.

Remove Plant Debris From Your Vents

Plant debris is a significant source of pollen. It can also prevent air from adequately circulating through your HVAC system. Take time to remove plant debris from your home and HVAC system vents. If it’s outdoors, your condenser unit is especially vulnerable to being blocked. Removing plant debris from around your HVAC unit can also protect it from damage by the roots of any plants that sprout nearby.

Close Your Windows

A little fresh air is nice, but too much of it can be a problem for your HVAC system. Outdoor pollen can blow into your home and build up inside your air filter and ducts. Close your windows to keep out pollen from your home. This can also help to keep temperatures stable inside your home. While bringing in Nature can be a welcome relief from stale indoor air, too much can cause more problems than it solves.

Wash Down Your Outdoor AC Unit

Pollen can build up on your outdoor AC unit, especially during the spring. This can reduce its efficiency and cause your HVAC system to break down faster than it would if it could run cleanly. Hose it down occasionally to remove any build-up of pollen. Keeping your AC clean can prevent it from overworking. You’ll also prevent your AC from blowing excess pollen into your home.

Clean Your Air Ducts

Pollen can build up in your home’s air ducts. You’ll need to clean your ducts to remove the pollen building up regularly. Periodically cleaning your ducts can also prevent dust from building up and improve airflow. Clean air ducts can also allow your HVAC system to work more accessible, increasing its life span.

Cleaning your home’s ductwork can also improve your overall health. Mold, dust, and smoke can build up inside your HVAC system’s ducts. Breathing this air in can aggravate allergies or any preexisting lung conditions you or your loved ones may have.

Upgrade Your Air Filter

If you’re having a problem with pollen in your home, try to upgrade your air filter. Higher-rated air filters can remove more pollen from your indoor air. HEPA filters can remove 99.97% of particulate matter, 0.3 microns in size and up. Most pollen will be removed from your air with one of these filters. However, less expensive air filters, such as pleated filters and electrostatic filters, can also more efficiently remove pollen than typical spun glass filters.

Maintain Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system is a working machine, and keeping it maintained can improve its ability to remove pollen from your home’s air. Schedule regular maintenance for it every six months or so. A qualified HVAC technician can inspect your system and detect any problems. They can make any repairs as needed to ensure your HVAC system works without issue.

Schedule an HVAC System Inspection Today!

Want to get rid of your indoor pollen problems or stop them before they start? Schedule an HVAC system inspection today! Your HVAC technician can look over your entire HVAC system and detect any issues that may be present. They can also schedule you for repairs if they’re needed.