A surprise snowstorm and a fair amount of February rain made this one of Arizona’s wetter winters in recent years. For most of the country, the old saying, “April showers bring May flowers,” rings true. However, in Phoenix, with all the precipitation, it’s more accurate to say, “When February brings rain and snow – in March, the ragweed and pollen will blow.” Trees that normally bloom in February are raring to blossom in March. Spring is bustin’ out all over and that means airborne pollen will be affecting allergy sufferers throughout the Valley of the Sun.
Pollen and Your IAQ (Indoor Air Quality)
Indoor air quality is extremely important, especially to people with allergies and individuals living with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD. Asthma is one of the top reasons for children missing school.
Consider this. Your AC system draws air from the outside and brings it into your home. Many homeowners are under the false impression that once inside their home, they are protected from outdoor air pollution. The fact is, when the windows and doors are closed, your home is a closed system, and the air inside is recirculated many times per day. What stands between you and the outside pollen-filled spring air is your AC system’s air filter. The cleaner your air filters, the better your IAQ. Here are a few factors affecting the quality of air inside your home:
- Air Conditioning Air Filters – During the hot summer months, Arizonans spend more than 90 percent of their time indoors. The key to cleaner indoor air and a higher IAQ is replacing your air filters on a regular basis. Because air conditioners get such heavy use in Arizona, it’s a good idea to replace your air filters at least six times per year. When your air filters get clogged, your air conditioner ends up recirculating dirty air throughout your home.
- Home Insulation – Newer construction techniques have greatly increased the effectiveness of insulation to protect houses against heat. Air tight, double paned windows and sealed tight door installations prevent hot desert air from getting inside your home. It’s all designed to keep your home cool. However, the downside can be recirculating air which is less than perfect if your air filters are dirty.
- Pollen, Pets and Particulates – Pollen isn’t the only offender when it comes to allergies. Dust and other airborne particulates from desert windstorms can lower your IAQ. If you have a dog or cat, pet dander can cause serious allergic reactions. It all adds up to one simple fact – your air filters might deserve more attention than they are getting.
We’re Remedying Arizona’s Pollen-Nation One Home at a Time
Spring is here, and summer is not far off. The beauty of the desert bloom means pollen is in the air. Schedule a spring tune-up and we’ll be happy to replace your air filters and checkout your entire system, so you’ll be ready for the heat when it hits. Why not call Cool Blew today?
