For homeowners in Knoxville, allergies can be a persistent problem. From heavy pollen to irritants that linger most of the year, many residents may be looking for ways to create a healthier environment for themselves and their families. While achieving 100% pure air is unlikely in this climate, there are many ways you can reduce the number of contaminants that enter and recirculate through your HVAC system.
In this article, the expert team at Varsity Zone HVAC offers tips to improve indoor air quality in Knoxville, with a short, practical list of DIY steps homeowners can complete in a single weekend to prepare for allergy season.
Why Allergy Symptoms Get Worse Indoors
Knoxville’s lush vegetation includes oak, maple, and pine trees that produce large amounts of pollen each year. When combined with grass pollen in summer and ragweed pollen in fall, allergies can become a year-round challenge. However, homeowners may notice that their allergy symptoms are actually worse indoors. The causes of this include:
- Easy entry: Pollen and pollutants can easily enter your home on shoes, pets, and clothing, as well as through open doors and windows.
- Dust and moisture: Dust, dander, and humidity can keep irritants circulating throughout your home for longer.
- HVAC circulation: HVAC systems can help or hurt indoor air quality depending on filtration, airflow, and moisture control.
The Knoxville Allergy-Season Prep Checklist
As part of your HVAC allergy season prep, you can reduce allergens in your home with a simple list of tips and tricks that help keep allergies at bay:
- Replace HVAC filter: Replace your HVAC filter and set a reminder to check it regularly during peak season.
- Vacuum away dust: Steps like vacuuming with a HEPA filter and damp-dusting surfaces can help remove particles, as dry dusting can re-launch irritants back into the air.
- Increase laundry frequency: Washing bedding weekly and cleaning pet blankets frequently are critical steps in dander management and can reduce overall allergy symptoms.
- Control entry points: Allergens that enter through entry points can be reduced by using doormats, removing shoes, and wiping pets after outdoor time.
- Reduce humidity: Homeowners who run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans can address excess moisture to discourage musty air and growth.
- Address ductwork issues: If you have concerns like visible dust at vents or musty smells, it may be a good time to schedule an indoor air quality assessment.
HVAC Moves That Make the Biggest Difference for Allergies
The best option for allergy management will depend on your home and should be designed to address the unique challenge that your indoor air quality presents. However, some of the top steps for maintaining a healthy environment for Knoxville homeowners include monitoring humidity levels and installing advanced filtration systems.
HVAC Maintenance
Seasonal HVAC maintenance is the key to keeping your indoor air fresh and clean. The thorough cleanings and full inspections help to improve airflow, reduce dust buildup in the system, and catch issues early. Plus, Varsity Zone HVAC offers a streamlined maintenance plan to help you prioritize tune-ups without adding to your to-do list.
Indoor Air Quality Assessment
The first step to creating a healthier home is to schedule an indoor air quality assessment. This service allows trained HVAC technicians to determine your home’s issues and match solutions to your symptoms. This includes advanced filtration to address dust and odors, as well as recommending a dehumidifier for Knoxville homes that experience moisture balance issues.
UV Air Purifier Installation
Homeowners can expect cleaner air with the installation of high-level air purification in Knoxville. This includes UV air purifiers as part of a whole-home approach to cleaner air, especially for homeowners who want an added layer beyond basic filtration.
When to Call Varsity Zone HVAC of Knoxville
Unsure if your home would benefit from some of these indoor air quality solutions? Call Varsity Zone HVAC if you’re experiencing:
- Allergies that feel worse indoors than outdoors
- Musty odors, lingering smells, or damp-feeling air
- Dust buildup after cleaning
- Weak airflow or uneven temperatures that make rooms uncomfortable
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Are Allergens?
Allergens are microscopic and smaller than a strand of human hair. That’s why homeowners can benefit from HEPA filters and those with higher MERV levels to capture contaminants and remove them from the air.
What Are Common Indoor Air Pollutants?
Homeowners can encounter a wide range of pollutants in their Knoxville homes, including biological pollutants such as pollen, mold, and dust mites, as well as chemical pollutants such as volatile organic compounds and pesticides.
Breathe Easy with Varsity HVAC of Knoxville
Take one small step today to improve your indoor air quality before allergy season peaks with tips and services from Varsity Zone HVAC. Our team can help you reduce irritants and improve HVAC system efficiency, ensuring your comfort and health year-round. Plus, our highly-trained team offers award-winning service as a trusted home services provider in Knoxville.
Schedule indoor air quality and HVAC services today by contacting Varsity Zone HVAC of Knoxville.