What MERV filter should I use for allergies?

MERV 11–13 captures most pollen and fine dust without over-restricting many systems. Always verify your blower and ducts can handle the added resistance.

Should I run the fan continuously during pollen season?

Running the fan more can filter more air, but it adds energy use. Try ‘fan on’ for a few hours during high pollen, or use ‘circulate’ if your thermostat supports it.

Do UV lights help with allergies?

UV helps keep coils clean and can reduce microbial growth. For pollen/dust allergies, filtration and source control matter more, but UV is a helpful add-on in humid climates.

Portable purifier or whole-home—what should I buy first?

Start with a whole-home filter or air cleaner so every room benefits. Add a portable HEPA in bedrooms if you want extra nighttime relief or can’t run the main fan often.

How long should I run the fan during peak pollen?

Try fan "circulate" or "on" for a few hours in the morning and evening when pollen peaks. If humidity climbs, switch back to "auto" and increase filtration instead.

Indoor Air QualityAllergy Season Tips

January 10, 2026

Indoor Air Quality Tips for Allergy Season

Practical steps to cut pollen, dust, and mold so your family breathes easier this spring.

Filters · Humidity · Air Cleaning · Ventilation

Underwood Heating and Air Conditioning indoor air quality and allergy season tips for Phenix City Alabama homes

Step 1: Upgrade filtration (biggest win)

✓Use MERV 11–13 if your system can handle the static pressure.
✓Change 1-inch filters every 30–45 days during peak pollen.
✓Seal filter doors/panels so air can’t bypass the media.

Pollen forecast playbook

✓Keep windows closed on high pollen days; use your HVAC for ventilation and filtration.
✓Run the fan 1–2 hours before bedtime to scrub bedroom air, then set back to auto.
✓Leave shoes by the door and bag yard-work clothes before washing to keep pollen out of bedrooms.
✓Use your garage entry when possible; pollen collects quickly at front doors and screens.

Step 2: Control humidity

Keep indoor RH at 40–50% to discourage mold and dust mites. Above 55% you’ll feel muggy and growth risk rises; below 35% noses and throats dry out.

✓Whole-home dehumidifier for consistent RH control.
✓Clear and treat the AC drain to prevent growth.

Bedroom-first strategy

You spend a third of your life here—prioritize it. Seal return gaps, keep doors slightly open for airflow, and add a portable HEPA if someone has nighttime symptoms. Wash bedding weekly in hot water and encase pillows/mattress.

Step 3: Add active air cleaning

✓Media or electronic air cleaners to capture fine particles.
✓UV at the coil to reduce biofilm on the wet surface.
✓Portable HEPA for bedrooms if main system can’t run fan continuously.

Step 4: Ventilation & source control

✓Run bath and kitchen exhaust during and 20 minutes after use.
✓Shoes off at entry; change clothes after heavy pollen exposure.
✓Consider balanced fresh-air ventilation if your home is tight.

Cleaning checklist for allergy season

✓Vacuum with a HEPA vac weekly; dust with a damp cloth.
✓Launder bedding in hot water weekly.
✓Wipe supply/return grilles monthly; stay on filter schedule.

Call a pro if you notice

✓Musty smells when the AC starts.
✓Condensate leaks or standing water in the drain pan.
✓Family still symptomatic after filter/humidity upgrades.

Next steps

We install whole-home air cleaners and dehumidifiers tailored to East Alabama homes.

Call (334) 846-0550 Request IAQ Consult

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