As the wind starts to pick up in Lubbock, the months of September and October bring more than just cooler temperatures—they bring allergy season. With the characteristic West Texas wind kicking up dust, pollen, and other allergens, it’s no wonder allergy sufferers feel the effects. But did you know your HVAC system plays a crucial role in managing indoor air quality during this time? At Comfort Masters, we want to help you prepare your HVAC system for Lubbock’s windy season, ensuring your home stays comfortable and your air stays clean.
Replace or Clean Your Air Filters
In Lubbock, where wind is a constant companion, outdoor air quality can quickly deteriorate, sending allergens like dust, ragweed, and pollen swirling into your home. Your HVAC system’s air filter is the first line of defense against these particles. If your filters are clogged, allergens will make their way through your system and into the air you breathe. During the peak of allergy season, it’s essential to check your air filters monthly and replace them as needed. Consider investing in high-efficiency filters (HEPA), which can trap even the smallest particles, helping to alleviate allergy symptoms.
Schedule an HVAC Inspection
Comfort Masters’ Comfort Club offers you peace of mind with annual check-ups on your home heating and air conditioning equipment. These check-ups not only help increase efficiency and prevent costly repairs later, but also ensure your system is prepared for Lubbock’s allergy season. Routine HVAC maintenance is key, especially when allergens are high. Our Comfort Club members enjoy priority service, exclusive discounts, and scheduled maintenance visits to keep their systems in top shape. A professional inspection allows our technicians to assess your system’s performance, clean components, and optimize filters. With our expertise, we’ll ensure your HVAC system is ready to handle Lubbock’s climate and keep your indoor air clean. We recommend scheduling a tune-up in September or early October to stay ahead of the allergy season and avoid unnecessary strain on your system.
Consider an Air Purification System
In areas prone to high winds like Lubbock, an HVAC system alone might not be enough to tackle all airborne allergens. Installing an air purification system or an advanced filtration device within your existing HVAC system can significantly improve indoor air quality. Air purifiers work by pulling allergens, bacteria, and other contaminants out of the air, providing cleaner and healthier air for your family. UV air purifiers, for instance, can destroy mold spores, viruses, and bacteria, making them a great option during allergy season.
Seal Ductwork
Leaky ductwork can let allergens into your home, undermining your HVAC system’s ability to filter the air. If your ducts are improperly sealed, the dust and debris stirred up by Lubbock’s winds can enter your home through gaps, reducing efficiency and increasing allergens. A professional duct inspection and sealing service can prevent this issue, keeping your indoor air clean and your HVAC system working effectively.
Control Humidity
Humidity may not be the first thing that comes to mind in Lubbock’s dry climate, but maintaining the right indoor humidity level is crucial for comfort and air quality. Low humidity can cause dry skin and respiratory irritation, while too much moisture can encourage mold growth. Aim for an indoor humidity level of about 30-50% to keep allergens at bay. Your HVAC system can help you control humidity levels, or you might consider a separate humidifier to maintain balance during windy fall months.
Clean Around Outdoor Units
Your HVAC system’s outdoor unit is exposed to the elements, especially during Lubbock’s windy season. Dust, leaves, and debris can easily build up around the unit, reducing efficiency and worsening air quality. Make sure to clean the area around your outdoor HVAC unit regularly, ensuring at least two feet of clearance. This will help maintain optimal airflow and prevent allergens from entering your system.
Contact Comfort Masters Today!
Lubbock’s windy season can wreak havoc on allergy sufferers, but by preparing your HVAC system now, you can make a big difference in your home’s air quality. From filter replacements to system inspections, there are many ways to ensure your HVAC system is ready to keep allergens at bay. Don’t wait until the sneezing starts—contact Comfort Masters today to schedule an HVAC tune-up and breathe easy this allergy season.
