As temperatures drop across the Triangle, cold and flu season isn’t far behind. While handwashing and staying active are great first steps, your home’s HVAC system plays a bigger role in your health than you might think. The air you breathe every day circulates through your heating system, carrying not only warmth but also allergens, dust, and even airborne viruses. Here’s how you can prepare your home—and your HVAC system—for sick season.

1. Upgrade Your Air Filtration

Your HVAC filter is your first line of defense against airborne particles. Standard filters catch dust and lint, but high-efficiency filters (such as HEPA or MERV 13-rated) can capture much smaller contaminants, including bacteria and viruses. Replacing your filter regularly—typically every 1 to 3 months—keeps air moving freely and your home’s air cleaner and healthier.

2. Consider an Air Purification System

Whole-home air purifiers work alongside your HVAC system to remove microscopic particles that filters can’t catch. These systems use advanced technologies like UV-C light or ionization to neutralize bacteria, mold spores, and viruses as they pass through your ductwork. Comfort Pro offers purification solutions designed to help homeowners breathe easier all year long, especially when seasonal illnesses peak.

3. Maintain Balanced Humidity Levels

Dry indoor air can make your throat scratchy, irritate sinuses, and allow viruses to spread more easily. A humidifier connected to your HVAC system helps maintain ideal indoor humidity levels between 30–50%, making your home feel warmer and helping to reduce respiratory irritation.

4. Schedule a Pre-Season Maintenance Check

Before cold weather sets in, have your HVAC system professionally inspected and serviced. A clean, efficient system not only improves indoor air quality but also ensures consistent heat throughout your home—keeping you comfortable and reducing the risk of mid-season breakdowns.

5. Keep Air Circulating

Good airflow is key to keeping indoor air healthy. Make sure vents and registers aren’t blocked by furniture or drapes, and consider using your system’s fan setting occasionally to keep air moving through your filters and purification devices.

Stay Comfortable and Healthy with Comfort Pro

Cold and flu season is unavoidable—but breathing cleaner air at home is entirely possible. Comfort Pro HVAC offers professional HVAC maintenance, filtration upgrades, and purification systems for homeowners throughout the Triangle area. Contact our team today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or learn more about improving your home’s air quality before sick season hits.