How Your HVAC and Cold and Flu Season Interact

How Your HVAC and Cold and Flu Season InteractIf the flu has ever hit you hard, you may look upon the cold and flu season with apprehension. But guess what? Your HVAC system can play a big role in protecting you from influenza viruses and cold germs.

Here are the different ways the system can be of assistance:

Air Filtration

Your HVAC system’s air filter removes pet dander, dust mites, mold spores and several other germs from the air being circulated throughout your home. As the filter ages, germs can accumulate on it. The air that you’re breathing in will still pass through that contaminated filter.

Changing your filter every month can help you keep the flu at bay.

Ultraviolet (UV) Lights

Harmful microorganisms can slip through a conventional filter. UV lights disrupt the DNA of these microorganisms, making them harmless. Studies have shown that these lights effectively inactivate flu viruses.

Add a UV light to your ductwork to inactivate the bacteria and viruses in the air flowing through it.

Indoor Humidity Control

Indoor air humidity contributes to the spread of germs and viruses. These pathogens usually thrive in low humidity. On the other hand, high humidity can promote the growth of mold and mildew.

A well-maintained HVAC system heats and cools your home as well as adjusting the humidity levels. If you have a humidity problem, contact an HVAC professional to do a maintenance check.

Production of Fresh Air

The quality of air in your home can be very low due to the continuous recycling of the air through your heating and cooling system. Low air quality can aggravate the respiratory system. As a result, cold and flu symptoms will be prolonged.

You can boost your home’s air quality by incorporating a fresh air intake into your HVAC system. It will vent indoor air outside and introduce clean outdoor air into your house.

Make the necessary changes to your HVAC system to reduce or eliminate the spreading of flu at home. For more tips on protecting yourself during the cold and flu season, contact us at Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company, proudly serving the Yuma area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about home comfort and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 928-723-3183.