woman sick in bed

You can catch the flu by breathing in the flu virus as it floats in the air, or by touching an infected surface and then touching your face. There are many ways to protect yourself, including having everyone in your family wash their hands and sneeze into their sleeve. Did you know that you can also use your HVAC system to protect yourself and your family? Here is how your HVAC system can play a part in your flu season fortunes.

Air Purifiers Can Remove the Virus

You can purchase an air purifier for home use that can filter or destroy viruses, along with many other contaminants in your home’s air including bacteria, mold, pollen, and dander. However, not all air purifiers are capable of doing this. Here’s what you should look for:

  • HEPA filters: HEPA filters are able to remove viruses from the air. They won’t remove all of them, and how much of the viral load they can remove will depend on how much air they can purify in a set period of time. You shouldn’t expect hospital-level cleanliness from a home HEPA filter, but you can expect it to remove some viruses.
  • UV filters: Some ultraviolet filters are capable of destroying flu viruses. They will still be in the air, but they won’t be able to multiply, so they won’t make you sick. Again, the level of protection this provides depends on a few factors. UV filters can help, but you can still get sick when you’re using them.
  • MERV rating: Filters with a MERV rating of 13 or greater are capable of removing viruses from the air. It’s better to choose these higher-rated filters for furnaces, air conditioners, and other HVAC equipment, and they will remove a small number of viruses from your air.

Avoid the flu or that nasty cold this winter by utilizing your HVAC system properly. To learn more about how you can purify your air in your home, contact our experts today.

air humidifier in living room

Humidity Levels Can Affect You

It has been suggested that the chronic low humidity conditions in our home during the winter may make virus transmission easier. Even if it doesn’t, low humidity can make your flu symptoms worse. Drier eyes, nose, throat, and mouth are more likely to be painful and sore.

You can change this by using a whole-home humidifier. They add moisture back into the air that your furnace heats, spreading it evenly through your home. Increased humidity can make you feel more comfortable even if you’re not sick.

Proper HVAC Maintenance

Proper HVAC maintenance can also help you avoid getting sick. Your HVAC technician will clean out your filters and fix any leaks or moisture issues, both of which can contribute to illnesses.

The flu season is here. Have you checked your HVAC systems lately? Our experts at Advantage Airtech are here to help you. Contact us today to learn more about how your HVAC systems can help you during the flu season.

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