Did you know your home’s HVAC system could actually be affecting your asthma? It might not be the first connection that comes to mind, but how your heating and cooling system is maintained can make a real difference when it comes to breathing easier.
Whether you’re trying to keep allergens at bay or just want cleaner air flowing through your home, here are twelve ways your HVAC setup can help relieve asthma symptoms—and even prevent them from flaring up in the first place.
Replace Air Filters Regularly to Minimize Allergens
A clogged air filter fails to control dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores, reducing indoor air quality and increasing the risk of asthma attacks. HVAC systems with clean filters remove airborne irritants more effectively, limiting exposure to volatile organic compounds, bacteria, and combustion byproducts.
Research indicates that high-efficiency filters help capture microscopic pollutants and lower the presence of common asthma triggers in the home, meaning that upgrading your filters is a good idea if you haven’t already.
Improve Ventilation to Reduce Airborne Contaminants
Poor ventilation increases indoor air pollution by trapping smoke, formaldehyde, and carbon dioxide inside the home. Sufficient ventilation throughout the home helps expel pollutants generated by everyday tasks.
Homes with inadequate ventilation can see higher concentrations of airborne irritants, increasing the likelihood of wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
Control Humidity Levels to Prevent Mold Growth
Mold thrives in areas with excess moisture, leading to contamination of the air with spores that can trigger asthma. A dehumidifier reduces humidity in damp spaces like the basement, bathroom, and kitchen, lowering the risk of mold growth.
Using a humidifier in winter prevents excessively dry air, which can cause irritation in the nose, eyes, and throat. A smart thermostat with humidity control settings helps homeowners maintain an optimal balance between moisture and dryness throughout the entire residence.
Schedule Routine HVAC Maintenance to Avoid Health Risks
Dust buildup in ducts, mildew growth in coils, and pest infestations in vents all contribute to poor indoor air quality. Routine maintenance prevents these hazards and reduces exposure to bacteria, mites, and volatile organic compounds.
Use Ultraviolet Technology to Kill Airborne Pathogens
Ultraviolet lights installed in an air conditioner can neutralize bacteria, viruses, and mold spores, improving air quality. UV technology reduces airborne contamination, decreasing the likelihood of respiratory diseases. Installing an ultraviolet purification system adds an extra layer of protection against asthma triggers.
Address Ductwork Damage to Reduce Indoor Pollution
Leaks in HVAC ducts can lead to a variety of IAQ problems. These conditions worsen asthma symptoms by increasing exposure to spores, dander, and pollutants. As a result, inspecting for duct leaks and getting them fixed promptly can help lower the risk of breathing issues and allergic reactions.
Reduce Combustion Byproducts
Furnaces, stoves, and space heaters that burn fuel release carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other combustion pollutants into the home. Make sure to vent these gases outside, reducing the risk of toxicity, lung irritation, and chronic disease. Regular inspections of appliances prevent inefficient combustion, lowering exposure to hazardous fumes and airborne particles.
Remove Carpet and Other Dust-Trapping Materials
Carpet, upholstery, and drapes trap dust, pollen, and pet dander, contributing to allergy symptoms and respiratory discomfort. Replacing carpet with hardwood, tile, or laminate reduces the accumulation of asthma triggers. Using a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter minimizes airborne mite and dust pollution, keeping indoor air cleaner.
Install an Air Purifier for Extra Protection
Air purifiers capture fine particles that standard HVAC filters may miss, reducing exposure to airborne irritants. High-quality purifiers remove volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, and smoke particles from the air. Data suggests that air purification systems significantly decrease airborne allergens, which benefits those with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Seal HVAC Ducts to Prevent Contamination
Leaky ducts allow pollutants from the attic, crawl spaces, and outdoor environment to enter the home. Sealing ductwork prevents soil particles, lead dust, and wildfire smoke from infiltrating living spaces. HVAC professionals use advanced materials to reduce duct leakage, improving overall air quality and minimizing the risk of asthma flare-ups.
Avoid Toxic Chemicals That Compromise Air Quality
Household products like certain paints and chemical-based cleaners release volatile organic compounds into the air. These substances contribute to indoor air pollution, triggering asthma symptoms and increasing the risk of long-term respiratory disease. By choosing low-toxicity cleaning products and ventilating properly when using chemical-based materials, you can improve your home’s indoor air quality.
Contact HVAC Professionals for Expert Assistance
An HVAC specialist provides tailored recommendations for improving air quality and reducing asthma triggers. Professionals can assess factors such as combustion efficiency, humidity control, and ventilation performance. Homeowners can schedule an evaluation and receive personalized information on the best solutions for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
At All American Heating, we offer professional IAQ services in Fairplay and other Colorado areas so that homeowners like you can stay safe and comfortable all year long.
Additionally, we also provide HVAC maintenance agreements to ensure your heating and cooling systems always perform their best. Reach out today, and we’ll go the extra mile to ensure the air you breathe indoors is safe and clean!