Air Quality

Breathe Better in Colorado: HVAC Tips for Reducing Allergies

May 3, 2023 by Brian Weiss

Allergy season in Colorado is in full swing, and this year it’s hitting harder than ever before.

Even if you’ve never had allergies in the past, you may suddenly find yourself sniffling, sneezing, and experiencing other allergy symptoms. In this article, we’ll explore how to reduce allergies in preparation for Colorado allergy season 2023, why Colorado’s allergy epidemic is worse than ever, how HVAC systems can alleviate symptoms, and how to improve indoor air quality to reduce the impact of seasonal allergies.

Why Are Allergies So Bad in Colorado This Year?

Colorado’s allergy season begins in the spring and is typically driven by tree and grass pollen, but this year’s allergy season has been worse than usual due to a few factors. One is the unusually wet spring, which has led to more pollen-producing plants. Another factor is the increasing levels of air pollution in Colorado, which can exacerbate allergy symptoms.

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality? Improving your indoor air quality isn’t just about upgrading your HVAC system. There are several other steps you can take to reduce allergens in your home. These include regularly vacuuming carpets and upholstery, keeping windows closed during peak pollen season, and using hypoallergenic bedding and cleaning products.

How Can HVAC Systems Alleviate Symptoms?

Your home’s HVAC system plays a critical role in regulating your indoor air quality. By filtering out pollen, dust, and other allergens, your HVAC system can significantly reduce the amount of irritants in the air you breathe. Upgrading your HVAC system’s air filter or investing in an air purifier can go a long way toward alleviating allergy symptoms.

Improving your indoor air quality can help reduce allergy symptoms and make it easier to breathe. Here are some HVAC tips for reducing allergies in your home:

Eliminate Hidden Allergens

A professional air duct cleaning involves removing the buildup of dust, debris, and other contaminants from your ductwork, which can help reduce the number of allergens in your home’s air. Over time, dust and debris can build up in your ductwork, contributing to poor indoor air quality. In addition to reducing allergy symptoms, scheduling an air duct cleaning in May can also improve the overall efficiency of your HVAC system. When your air ducts are clogged with dust and debris, it can make it harder for your system to circulate air, leading to increased energy usage and higher utility bills. By removing this buildup, your HVAC system can run more efficiently and save you money on energy costs. People, especially if you’re wondering how to reduce allergies, should schedule an air duct cleaning from late-April to May. This is typically the peak of allergy season in Colorado.

Check Your First Line of Defense

Air filters act as the first line of defense for our lungs by capturing airborne pollutants and allergens before they can be inhaled. When we breathe, air enters our respiratory system and is filtered through our nose, throat, and lungs. However, many airborne contaminants are too small to be filtered out by our body’s natural defenses. Did you know there are multiple types of air filters your HVAC system can use? high-quality air filter is a type of filter that is designed to capture a wide range of airborne contaminants, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens, as well as bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. There are many different types of air filters available, ranging from basic fiberglass filters to more advanced HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters.

People with allergies should change their air filters often because the air filter is responsible for trapping airborne allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust before they can circulate throughout your home. If the filter becomes clogged with these particles, it can no longer effectively trap new allergens, which can worsen allergy symptoms. Changing the air filter every 1-3 months ensures that it remains clean and effective in capturing airborne allergens, thus reducing the number of allergens in your home’s air. By changing your air filter often, you can improve your indoor air quality and reduce allergy symptoms.

Whole-House Humidifier

Colorado’s dry climate can exacerbate allergy symptoms. People with allergies should consider investing in a whole-house humidifier because it can help alleviate the dryness and irritation in the nasal passages and respiratory system that often exacerbate allergy symptoms. In Colorado, where the climate is particularly dry, the lack of humidity can make allergy symptoms even worse.

Whole-house humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can help soothe dry, irritated nasal passages and throats, reducing the frequency and severity of allergy symptoms. Additionally, a whole-house humidifier can help prevent dry skin, which is a common side effect of allergies and can lead to itching and discomfort. Overall, investing in a whole-house humidifier can help allergy sufferers breathe more easily and comfortably, and may even reduce their dependence on allergy medication.

APCO-X Air Scrubbing UV Light

If you’re wondering, “what is an air scrubbing UV light?” Well, it’s less scary than it sounds, we promise. An APCO-X air scrubbing UV light is a type of ultraviolet (UV) light that is used in HVAC systems to kill airborne contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. The APCO-X technology combines UV-C light with activated carbon to create a highly effective air purification system. As air passes through the APCO-X system, the UV-C light kills any bacteria or viruses present, while the activated carbon traps odors and other pollutants.

But how can an air scrubber reduce allergy symptoms? For people with allergies, an APCO-X air scrubbing UV light can be especially beneficial because it helps remove allergens from the air, such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. By removing these allergens from the air, the APCO-X system can help reduce the frequency and severity of allergy symptoms, making it easier for allergy sufferers to breathe.

In addition, it can also alleviate respiratory issues due to its air purification benefits. The APCO-X system reduces the amount of airborne contaminants in the home. This can be especially beneficial for people with respiratory issues, such as asthma, as well as for those who are concerned about the spread of airborne illnesses.

Conclusion:

If you’re a Colorado homeowner struggling with allergies this season, you’re not alone. With the right steps, you can reduce the impact of seasonal allergies on your life. By upgrading your HVAC system and taking steps to improve your indoor air quality, you can breathe easy and enjoy all that Colorado has to offer.

Contact us today to consult with our team and get customized HVAC solutions from our trained and experienced professionals.

Which is Better: Air Cleaners or Air Purifiers?

January 9, 2023 by Brian Weiss

Thanks to the pandemic, indoor air quality has become an especially hot topic as Colorado families search for ways to protect themselves from harmful airborne substances. However, even before the pandemic, more than 50 million Americans suffered from allergies that could benefit from air filtration.When it comes to air cleaners and air purifiers, it’s not uncommon for people in the Denver Metro Area to buy one when what they actually want or need is the other.

Do I need an air cleaner or an air purifier?

While both air cleaners and air purifiers remove impurities from the air, the level of removal is different. Air cleaners filter the air to remove primarily smoke, smells, and larger particles. Air purifiers sanitize the air by removing smoke, smells, and fine particles like viruses, pet dander, pollen, dust, dust mites, and biological contaminants.

Several factors determine whether an air cleaner or air purifier is best for your Colorado home.

Air Cleaner

Noise and Cost
Requiring a fan can be noisy and expensive due to filters that must be replaced.
Room Size
Whole-house solutions that can be installed directly into the HVAC system.
Pollutants Addressed
Remove smoke, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mold spores, and similar gases.
Treatment Technology
Require HEPA filters for small particles, active carbon filters to capture smoke and VOCs, and UV sanitizers to filter out spores.

Air Purifier

Noise and Cost
Operates almost in silence; some use filters, others use UV light, and some use both
Room Size
Whole-house solutions that can be installed directly into the HVAC system
Pollutants Addressed
Viruses that make people sick, pathogens that trigger allergies, and mold spores.
Treatment Technology
Combined UV light and ionic or electrostatic filters to trap particles, pathogens, and gases

Colorado Discount Heating & Cooling recommends several products and services to increase indoor air quality.

Air Scrubber Whole House, Air Purifier

Air Scrubber with ActivePure® Technology is installed directly into your forced air duct system. It doesn’t just treat the air; it also helps clean the surfaces of your home, including countertops, doorknobs, kitchens, and bathrooms: air cleaning and filtration technology. Air Scrubber with ActivePure® Technology utilizes many technologies to clean and purify the air for Colorado families.

Whole House Air Cleaners

Whole-home air cleaners are efficient filter that removes particles from the air. An air cleaner is good at reducing the number of allergens, pollen, and dust in the air you breathe while inside your Denver Metro Area home. People suffering from allergies and asthma will benefit from an air cleaner.

Maintenance Services for Air Filtration Systems

A yearly air filtration system inspection by the licensed professionals of Colorado Discount Heating & Cooling will help catch any issues with your particular unit. Removing dust from your unit is essential so it will not be dispersed back into the air. We change filters and replace bulbs as needed.

Why Choose Us?

Colorado Discount Heating & Cooling is dedicated to our customers’ comfort, safety, and peace of mind. Count on our team of highly experienced, licensed, bonded, and insured technicians to provide you with top-rated air filtration services. We stand by the quality of our services and provide each customer with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Located in Englewood, Colorado, we serve the entire Denver Metro Area.

Contact us today to consult with our team and get customized HVAC solutions from our trained and experienced professionals.

3 Reasons Your Home’s Air Filter is Turning Black

May 24, 2022 by Brian Weiss

As a homeowner, it can be shocking to find a black air filter. But it’s more shocking to discover your filter turning black again after replacing your air filter.If your air filter is turning black, it’s likely due to one or more of three reasons. Read on to learn what these reasons are and what you should do about them.

1. Black Soot Deposition

Black soot deposition is a phenomenon that affects many homeowners throughout the nation.

This soot is the result of burning various items, including:

Candles
Wood
Oil
Gasoline
Cooking oil
Carpet fibers

Basically, anything that burns can produce black soot. More commonly, though, black soot is a result of poor candle quality. When these candles burn, they produce black soot, which is sucked into your HVAC system. As a result, it turns the filter black.

2. Mold Growth

Unfortunately, mold growth is another big reason your air filter might be turning black. Mold growth can occur if your HVAC system has been damaged, if your indoor air is too humid, or if you haven’t cleaned your HVAC system in some time.

If you suspect you have mold growing in your HVAC system or ducts, you should call for professional help immediately, as too much mold can lead to respiratory issues.

3. Clogged Air Filters/Excess Debris in the AC Air Filter

If your air filters are too clogged or if there is excess debris in your AC air filter, it can eventually cause your filter to turn black. This condition is relatively normal — homeowners must change out their air filters once every six months to keep their filters clean.

Steps to Take

If you notice a black air filter, change your filter immediately. Then, vacuum around the area to remove extra dirt. If the problem persists, you will need to call a professional to change your air filters.

Call Colorado Discount Heating & Cooling Today!

If you notice a black air filter, it may be indicative of a problem with your HVAC system. When this happens, it’s important to call Call Colorado Discount Heating & Cooling to service your HVAC system.

With trusted brands, straightforward communication, and honest prices, we’re excited to assist with your HVAC maintenance. Plus, when you book a maintenance service, you receive a 10% off guarantee against the need for future repairs.

If you’re in the Englewood, CO, or the Denver Metro area, give our team at Colorado Discount Heating & Cooling a call today!

Allergies? Here are 6 Ways to Reduce them this Spring

April 4, 2022 by Brian Weiss

With 300 plus days of sunshine, winters still can feel a bit long in Denver. It’s no wonder when spring comes, we want to open the windows and get outside more, so it’s frustrating when allergies foil our plans.Your indoor air quality may be a bigger culprit in aggravating your allergies than the outdoor air! With a little attention and proper HVAC maintenance, however, you can greatly reduce the allergens in your home.

Here are six important tips to help you breathe easier:

1. Conduct a thorough spring cleaning.

Pay particular attention to areas you may have missed during routine cleaning. Dust the heat registers and return vents in each room (clean these first), as well as fixtures and ceiling fans. Vacuum upholstery and drapes. Use a damp or treated cloth when dusting to avoid kicking up dust particles and dust mites while you work.

2. Have your air ducts cleaned by a professional.

Dust, dirt, mold, and other contaminants can collect in your ductwork. Because your HVAC system is continuously recirculating air, those contaminants build up and can severely compromise your indoor air quality.

3. Change your furnace filter.

This simple step helps ensure that the air circulating in your home is clean. Regularly replacing filters also keeps your furnace functioning properly and reduces maintenance issues. Choose high-quality air filters for allergy reduction to ensure the best performance.

4. Make sure the area around your HVAC unit is clear.

The outside AC unit can get clogged with dust, dirt and debris. Keeping the area around it clear prevents those things from getting pulled into your home. Pruning trees and controlling weeds cuts down on the allergens that find their way inside. Sweep, dust and vacuum around the indoor unit to keep it free from dust and debris as well.

5. Have an air cleaner installed.

The experts at Colorado Discount Heating & Cooling can advise you on the benefits of air cleaners and help you choose the right model.

6. Schedule a spring HVAC maintenance appointment.

Not only will this help keep your indoor air clean, but regular maintenance also ensures that your unit will function properly when you switch from heating to cooling, and may prevent costly repairs.

Transitioning from fall to spring can be a challenging adjustment. Colorado Discount Heating & Cooling can help you smooth that transition with an optimally functioning HVAC system. Contact us today!