How to Improve Indoor Air Quality During Allergy Season

As winter ends and spring arrives in Johnson City, Kingsport and the Tri-Cities area, the landscape changes. Flowers bloom, trees bud, and a familiar but unwelcome visitor appears— allergies. For many residents, spring is the season of sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion.

Allergy season can turn your home from a sanctuary into a sneeze-filled battleground. Pollen, dust, and other allergens don’t just stay outside—they sneak indoors, wreaking havoc on your air quality and your comfort. At Steve Huff Plumbing, Heating and Air, we want to help you breathe better. Here are some tips to improve your indoor air quality during allergy season. 

1. Change Your Air Filters Regularly Can Help Indoor Air Quality Overall

Your HVAC system is your main defense against airborne allergens. However, it only works well if the filter is clean. A clogged or outdated filter allows allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander to circulate freely. It is a good idea to change your air filter every 1 to 3 months. Change it more often during allergy seasons to catch irritants before they spread. For enhanced results, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency filter, such as a HEPA option. If you are unsure which filter is right for your system, feel free to contact us. We will help you find the best fit.

Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is important. It helps improve indoor air quality. Maintenance also ensures the system runs well and uses energy efficiently. Beyond replacing filters, it’s important to schedule routine inspections and cleanings with a professional technician. This proactive approach helps find problems before they get worse. It extends your system’s lifespan and keeps your home comfortable all year. Additionally, consider incorporating air purifiers or humidifiers to further enhance air quality and comfort. By prioritizing these steps, you can create a healthier home for you and your loved ones.

2. Keep Allergens Out Improve Indoor Air Quality with Routine Duct Cleaning

Even with a fresh filter, allergens can lurk in your air ducts, waiting to be blown back into your living space. Over time, dust, pollen, and mold can build up in ductwork, especially if it hasn’t been cleaned in a while. Scheduling a duct cleaning with Steve Huff Plumbing, Heating and Air can remove hidden problems. This will make your air cleaner and help reduce your allergies.

A good duct cleaning not only improves the air you breathe but also helps your heating and cooling systems work better. Clean ducts help your HVAC system operate more smoothly, potentially reducing energy consumption and lowering your utility bills. A cleaner indoor environment is good for everyone’s health. It helps everyone in the home feel better. You can learn more about it here. By letting skilled professionals handle this job, you make sure every part of your ductwork is thoroughly cleaned. This gives you peace of mind and a fresher, healthier home.

3. Control Humidity Levels

Mold and dust mites thrive in damp environments, and allergy sufferers know these are major triggers. Aim to keep indoor humidity between 30-50%—too high, and you’re inviting mold; too low, and dry air can irritate your sinuses. A whole-home dehumidifier or humidifier tied into your HVAC system can maintain that sweet spot. Our team can assess your home and recommend the best solution to keep humidity—and allergens—under control.

Additionally, regular maintenance of your HVAC system is important. This includes cleaning and replacing filters. Doing this helps reduce allergens in your home. Think about using air purifiers with HEPA filters in important rooms. They can catch airborne particles like dust mites and mold spores. It’s helpful to create a cleaning routine.

You should: vacuum using a HEPA-filter vacuum.

• Wash bedding in hot water.
• Reduce clutter to prevent dust buildup. By taking these proactive measures, you can create a healthier indoor environment and improve your overall quality of life.

4. Upgrade to an Air Purifier

For an extra layer of protection, consider adding an air purifier to your allergy-fighting arsenal. Portable units are good for single rooms. However, for relief throughout your home, we suggest a system that works with your HVAC. These purifiers can capture tiny particles like pollen and pet dander that standard filters might miss. Curious about what’s right for your home? We’d love to walk you through your options.

If you have seasonal allergies or allergies all year, picking the right air purifier can help a lot. It can greatly improve your indoor air quality. Consider factors such as room size, filter type, and noise level when making your choice. HEPA filters are highly effective, trapping 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. For those sensitive to odors and gases, a purifier with activated carbon filters might be ideal. Also, look for models with smart features. These features let you check air quality in real-time and change settings from afar. Remember, a little research goes a long way in ensuring you breathe easier every day.

5. Seal Up Your Home

Allergens love an easy entry point. Check windows, doors, and any cracks for leaks where pollen can slip inside. Weatherstripping and caulking can make a big difference, and keeping windows closed during high pollen days helps too. Combine that with regular vacuuming (use a HEPA-filter vacuum!) and wash bedding in hot water each week. This helps stop allergens from settling in.

Additionally, consider investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter for your home to capture airborne particles. Indoor plants can also help improve air quality, but choose varieties that do not produce pollen. It’s helpful to make a habit of taking off shoes at the door. This stops pollen and other dirt from coming inside. For those particularly sensitive, taking a shower and changing clothes after spending time outside can further reduce exposure. Remember, maintaining a clean and well-ventilated home is key to minimizing allergens and ensuring a comfortable living environment.

6. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up

Your heating and cooling system works hard all year, but allergy season puts it to the test. A spring tune-up from Steve Huff Plumbing, Heating, and Air makes sure your unit runs well. It helps circulate clean air and prevents allergens from spreading. We’ll inspect every component, clean what needs cleaning, and catch any issues before they turn into bigger problems.

With our skilled technicians at work, you can relax knowing your home is being taken care of with care and focus. Regular maintenance helps your system last longer. It also improves indoor air quality, which is important for people with allergies. Our team is dedicated to giving you the best service. We want your home to be a place of comfort and health all year long. Don’t wait for problems to arise—schedule your tune-up today and enjoy a fresher, cleaner home environment.

Breathe Easy with Steve Huff

Allergy season doesn’t have to mean misery indoors. With a few smart steps—and a little help from your friends at Steve Huff Plumbing, Heating and Air—you can enjoy cleaner, fresher air all spring long. Ready to tackle your air quality? Contact us today to schedule a duct cleaning, HVAC tune-up, or consultation for air purifiers and humidity solutions. Let’s make your home the