Although medical knowledge regarding allergies and how to treat them is satisfactory, the relationship between allergens and age is just now being examined. Early findings indicate that the older population tends to react more intensely than their younger counterparts. Being able to solve or mitigate allergic reactions, especially in this year-round climate, might restore some or all of your comfort at home.
Riskier Consequences in Older Populations
When allergies affect the respiratory system, they often cause upper and lower respiratory congestion. People with heart and/or lung disease may experience reduced cardiac and pulmonary outputs. Blood-oxygen levels can drop to unhealthy levels, and the heart may undergo undue stress.
Another challenge facing older people is the way they react to antihistamines. They don’t always experience the relief these drugs provide younger people. Depending on the type of allergy and the length of its season, their discomfort could last awhile.
Managing Allergens and Age with an HVAC System
- Air filters with high MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) ratings trap more particles. Filters with ratings higher than 8 MERV will trap most airborne particulates, including pollen, mold spores, and dust mites. These work well when your HVAC system runs frequently, mainly in the summer. You can run the blower fan in the air handler for continuous air cleaning.
- Have a technician from Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company maintain your HVAC system annually. Clean systems and a clear condensate line will minimize irritants in your home’s air.
- Air cleaners that attach to your HVAC system will help anyone who needs to deal with issues surrounding allergens and age. They use the ductwork, their own fans, and additional filtration to remove many of the irritating particulates in the air. Some use electrostatic filters that are reusable.
- Be wary of air cleaners that produce ozone, since it is a known respiratory irritant, especially for older people.
- UV (ultraviolet) lights in the air handler and/or ducts can reduce the level of mold inside your home. UV light keeps viruses, molds, and bacteria from reproducing.
If you’re concerned about allergens and age, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company. We provide trusted HVAC services to Yuma-area homeowners.
