Have you ever noticed that your allergies tend to act up more in the summertime? Believe it or not, many summer allergy symptoms can be attributed to poor indoor air quality. This is because, as we retreat to our homes to beat the heat, we are breathing in air that can be up to five times more contaminated than the air outside. Rather than forcing you to stay outside in the heat in order to breathe easier, our Fort Collins indoor air quality experts at Protech Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning have put together a series of tips to improve your indoor air quality during the summer.
Tip #1: Have Any Pets Groomed Regularly
Just as we get hot in the summer, so do our pets. Covered in fur, our beloved cats and dogs begin to shed in order to regulate their internal body temperature and keep them cool. However, with all of their fluff and dander around your house, it’s bound to get into your ducts, circulate throughout your air, and clog your air filter faster. Getting your pets groomed will reduce the amount of dander and fur that can circulate within your home’s air.
Tip #2: Change Your Air Filter On a Monthly Basis
Because there is an increased presence of many allergens in the summer months (anything from pollen to pet dander), your air filters can clog incredibly fast thus rendering them ineffective. In order to prevent clogged filters and keep the air with your property fresh and clean, we recommend having your air filter replaced once a month. We suggest that you opt for filters that are rated at least an 11 on the MERV scale.
Tip #3: Consider Using a Dehumidifier
Summers in Fort Collins are warm and humid. Unfortunately, this weather is conducive to the survival of many common pests and allergens. For example, dust mites thrive in humidity, which can pose a serious threat to anyone in your household that suffers from allergies or asthma. A dehumidifier will help decrease the moisture in your property. This can help prevent mold and mildew growth as well as other allergens from forming.
Tip #4: Install an HVAC UV Light
Mold and other bacteria thrive in moist environments, and as cool air circulates throughout your ducts, it makes them the perfect breeding ground. Installing a UV light can help reduce the contaminants that end up in your ductwork and will result in fresher, cleaner air.
Tip #5: Have Your Ducts Cleaned
As you rely on your air conditioner in the summer heat, chances are that you also have your windows and doors closed. As your property is sealed tight to ensure greater efficiency, it means that all of the pollutants currently in your home continue to circulate throughout the air and eventually end up within your ducts. As they build up, it can decrease your indoor air quality and also cause your AC to have to work harder. Give us a call for professional duct cleaning so you can remain cool and comfortable indoors all summer long.
Get in Touch with Us for All Your Indoor Air Quality Needs
At Protech Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, we want to ensure that all of our customers are healthy, safe, and comfortable. Our licensed and experienced technicians will listen attentively to your concerns and make sure that we address them. Whether you want your ducts cleaned or you’re looking for other ways to improve your indoor air quality this summer, we can help.
Just give us a call at (970) 707-5226 or contact us online to get started.