How to Improve Indoor Air Quality During Florida’s Allergy Season
Seasonal allergies in Florida are no joke. Thanks to our subtropical climate, high humidity, and extended growing seasons, allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites are present much of the year—especially in spring and fall. For many Floridians, relief isn’t as simple as staying indoors. Without proper filtration, ventilation, and humidity control, your home’s air can actually trap allergens and worsen symptoms.
At Jim McDonald & Sons, we help homeowners across Sarasota, Bradenton, and the surrounding areas improve their indoor air quality (IAQ) to breathe easier and live healthier—especially during allergy season. Whether you’re sneezing constantly or just want fresher, cleaner air indoors, we’ve got you covered.
In this blog, we’ll share how to combat common allergens inside your Florida home and what you can do to enhance your air quality today.
Why Florida Homes Struggle with Indoor Allergens
Florida’s climate is beautiful, but it’s also a breeding ground for allergens. Our warm temperatures and frequent rainstorms lead to higher:
- Pollen counts (especially from trees, grasses, and weeds)
- Humidity, which creates a haven for mold and mildew
- Dust mite activity, especially in soft furnishings and carpeted spaces
Even if you keep windows closed, these allergens can still enter your home via clothing, pets, shoes, or your HVAC system. Once inside, they get recirculated—unless your system is equipped to remove them effectively.
1. Upgrade Your Air Filters
The first and easiest step to better indoor air quality is to check and upgrade your air filters.
Most standard HVAC filters trap large dust particles but are ineffective against pollen, mold spores, and other fine allergens. Consider switching to:
- HEPA filters – Capture 99.97% of airborne particles 0.3 microns and larger
- MERV 13 or higher filters – Ideal for homes with allergy sufferers
Jim McDonald & Sons can help you choose the right filter that balances air quality with HVAC efficiency. We also recommend replacing filters every 30–90 days, depending on your system and household needs.
2. Control Indoor Humidity
Humidity plays a major role in indoor air quality—especially during Florida’s muggy months. Excess moisture in the air encourages the growth of:
- Mold and mildew
- Bacteria
- Dust mites
Ideally, indoor humidity should be kept between 30% and 50%.
At Jim McDonald & Sons, we offer whole-home dehumidifiers and humidity control solutions that integrate with your existing HVAC system to maintain optimal levels and discourage allergens from taking hold.
3. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Your air conditioner doesn’t just cool your home—it also plays a huge role in circulating and cleaning your indoor air.
A dirty or poorly maintained HVAC system can:
- Spread dust and allergens
- Grow mold in coils or drip pans
- Reduce airflow and filtration efficiency
With our comprehensive maintenance plans, Jim McDonald & Sons inspects, cleans, and tunes up your system for peak performance year-round. Our NATE-certified technicians check for signs of mold, clogged filters, leaky ductwork, and more to ensure your system isn’t part of the problem.
4. Install an Air Purification System
For families with allergy sufferers or respiratory conditions, a whole-home air purifier can be a game changer. These systems work in tandem with your HVAC system to remove:
- Airborne allergens
- Viruses and bacteria
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Odors and smoke particles
We proudly install high-efficiency UV light systems and electronic air cleaners designed to neutralize contaminants and provide real-time filtration throughout your home.
5. Clean Ductwork and Vents
Over time, your air ducts can accumulate:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Mold spores
- Pet dander
When your HVAC system kicks on, those contaminants can circulate through your entire home.
Professional duct cleaning helps remove these trapped pollutants and ensures your air stays fresh and healthy. If your ducts haven’t been cleaned in years—or ever—it might be time to schedule an inspection with Jim McDonald & Sons.
We’ll check for buildup, leaks, or mold and recommend the best next steps.
6. Add Ventilation Where It’s Needed
Many modern homes are sealed tightly for energy efficiency—but this can also trap stale air and allergens inside.
Proper ventilation is essential for circulating fresh air and reducing indoor pollutants. Options include:
- Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs)
- Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans
- Attic ventilation systems
Our experts can evaluate your home’s airflow and recommend cost-effective ventilation upgrades to keep fresh air moving without sacrificing comfort or energy efficiency.
7. Clean Flooring and Upholstery Regularly
In addition to HVAC upgrades, reducing allergens in your home also involves regular cleaning of surfaces that trap dust and pollen. This includes:
- Vacuuming with a HEPA filter-equipped vacuum
- Washing curtains, pillow covers, and bedding weekly
- Deep-cleaning carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture
Pairing this with a high-performance HVAC and air purification system helps reduce allergen buildup and maintain healthy air.
8. Keep Windows and Doors Closed
While it might be tempting to open the windows during a breezy spring day, doing so can let in high amounts of pollen and outdoor pollutants.
During Florida’s allergy season, keep doors and windows closed, and use your HVAC system or fans to circulate air instead. Make sure door seals and window frames are also properly sealed to minimize infiltration.
9. Consider a Smart Thermostat with Air Quality Features
Today’s smart thermostats offer more than just temperature control—they can monitor indoor humidity, remind you when to change your filter, and even alert you to air quality changes.
Jim McDonald & Sons installs smart HVAC solutions that make it easier to stay on top of IAQ without the guesswork.
Conclusion
Florida’s allergy season doesn’t have to mean suffering inside your own home. With expert solutions from Jim McDonald & Sons, you can significantly improve indoor air quality, reduce allergy triggers, and breathe easier all year long.
From filter upgrades and UV purifiers to humidity control and duct cleaning, our team is here to help you create a healthier home environment.
Free Estimates on New Systems! No Overtime Fees!
Call us today at (941) 360-9898 or visit 👉 http://www.jimmcdonaldcool.com to schedule your indoor air quality consultation and discover why Sarasota trusts Jim McDonald & Sons for expert HVAC care!
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