Employee Spotlight: Norma Norton

What Does Pollen Do to Your HVAC?: Understanding the Impact and Solutions Pollen's not just a concern for your allergies; it also poses a notable threat to the efficiency and longevity of your HVAC system. When trees, grasses, and flowers bloom, they release these tiny, powdery grains into the air, and inevitably, some of it finds its way into our homes and HVAC systems. But what does pollen actually do to your HVAC? Let's explore the impact and solutions. 1. Clogged Air Filters Air filters are the first line of defense in your HVAC system, trapping pollutants, dust, and yes — pollen. During high pollen seasons, filters can become clogged faster than usual, which impedes airflow. Solution: Check and replace your HVAC filters more frequently during peak pollen times. Consider investing in filters with a higher MERV rating that can capture smaller particles, including pollen, without restricting airflow. 2. Reduced Efficiency When pollen clogs the filter, your HVAC system has to work harder to pull air through it. This strain not only reduces efficiency but can also lead to an increase in your energy bills as the system consumes more power to maintain your desired indoor temperature. Solution: Regular maintenance, including professional inspections and cleanings, can help ensure that your system is running as efficiently as possible. 3. Increased Allergens Indoors If pollen makes its way past a dirty or inefficient filter, it can circulate through your indoor air, posing a risk to allergy sufferers. This defeats the purpose of having an HVAC system that's supposed to provide a clean, comfortable indoor environment. Solution: Consider adding air purifiers with HEPA filters to your home, especially in bedrooms, to further reduce allergen exposure inside. Also, ensure that your home is well-sealed to minimize the infiltration of outdoor air that could bring in additional pollen. 4. Strain on the Entire System An HVAC system struggling with a dirty filter and reduced airflow may experience strain on its components. The blower fan can wear out faster, and the evaporator coils can freeze, leading to potential system breakdowns and expensive repairs. Solution: Schedule preventative maintenance to ensure that all components of the HVAC system are functioning correctly. The technician can identify and address potential issues before they escalate into more significant problems. 5. Decreased Indoor Air Quality Not only can excess pollen in your system exacerbate allergies, but it can also affect people with no known allergies. Poor air quality can lead to a general discomfort, with symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and headaches being common. Solution: In addition to regular HVAC maintenance and filtration, you might also want to invest in a whole-house dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels, which can help prevent the proliferation of mold and other allergens. Pollen can wreak havoc on your HVAC system if not properly managed. However, with proactive care and the right equipment, you can minimize its effects. Regularly clean and replace air filters, seal leaks in your home, and consider investing in supplemental air purification tools. By taking these steps, you can safeguard your HVAC system, maintain good indoor air quality, and ensure a pleasant and allergen-reduced environment at home.

Top 5 Energy-Zapping Habits in the Summer The shift to warmer weather can come with a noticeable increase in our energy bills. As temperatures rise, so does the tendency to engage in habits that, while providing short-term relief, significantly contribute to energy wastage. Identifying and adjusting these energy-zapping habits can lead to not only a more environmentally friendly lifestyle but also substantial savings. Here are the top five habits to be aware of and adjust this summer. 1. Overusing Air Conditioning While air conditioning is a modern luxury that can make the hot summer months bearable, excessive use is among the top energy-zapping habits. Setting the thermostat too low or leaving the AC on when no one is home contributes to unnecessary energy consumption. Tip: Consider installing a programmable thermostat or a smart home system that allows you to schedule cooling times and adjust settings remotely. Setting your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re not home can lead to significant savings. 2. Ignoring HVAC Maintenance A well-maintained HVAC system operates more efficiently and uses less energy. Neglecting routine maintenance such as replacing filters or ignoring signs that the system may not be working efficiently can lead to higher energy consumption. Tip: Schedule regular maintenance checks and clean or replace the air filter every 90 days or as recommended by the manufacturer to keep your system running smoothly. 3. Frequent Opening of Refrigerator Doors It might seem trivial, but the habit of opening the refrigerator frequently can cause a significant increase in energy usage. Each opening allows cool air to escape, forcing the fridge to work harder to maintain its internal temperature. Tip: Try to limit the number of times you open the fridge door by planning what you need ahead. Keeping the fridge and freezer well-organized can also help minimize the time the door stays open. 4. Overdoing the Use of Heat-Producing Appliances Summer is not the best time to frequently use ovens, stovetops, or other appliances that produce a lot of heat. These not only contribute to the ambient temperature of your home (making your AC work harder) but also use a lot of energy. Tip: Opt for meals that require minimal cooking, use a microwave or slow cooker, or consider grilling outdoors. 5. Poor Insulation and Air Leaks Poor insulation and air leaks around doors and windows allow cool air to escape, which can significantly increase the workload on your air conditioning unit. This, in turn, increases energy consumption.  Tip: Invest in quality insulation, and use weather-stripping around doors and windows to seal leaks. These improvements can provide long-term savings and a more comfortable living environment. Summertime should be a season of enjoyment, not high energy bills. By being mindful of these top energy-zapping habits and making a few adjustments, you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home without breaking the bank. Start implementing these tips today for a more energy-efficient summer.