6 Surprising Ways Your HVAC System Affects Family Health This Flu Season
When flu season rolls into North Alabama, most families focus on handwashing, vitamins, and flu shots to stay healthy. But what if your HVAC system—the very one responsible for keeping your home warm—was also playing a major role in your family’s health, for better or worse?
Surprisingly, your heating and cooling system can either help protect your loved ones from seasonal illness or contribute to it, depending on how it’s maintained and used. This season, don’t overlook the hidden connection between your HVAC and your health.
In this blog, we’ll explore six often-overlooked ways your HVAC system affects your indoor environment and your immune system—and what you can do about it.
1. Dirty Air Filters Can Circulate Germs and Allergens
You probably already know that your HVAC system uses air filters—but did you know that a dirty filter can worsen indoor air quality and circulate flu viruses, pet dander, mold spores, and bacteria?
When filters are clogged with dust and pollutants:
- Airflow is restricted, causing uneven heating and poor circulation
- Viruses and bacteria may remain suspended in the air longer
- Allergy and asthma symptoms may increase
What to do:
- Change your filter every 1 to 3 months, especially during flu season
- Consider upgrading to a HEPA or MERV-13 filter for finer filtration
2. Dry Indoor Air Makes It Easier to Get Sick
During cold months, your furnace naturally lowers indoor humidity levels. This dry air can:
- Dry out mucous membranes, making it easier for viruses to infect your respiratory system
- Irritate the throat and sinuses
- Contribute to dry skin, nosebleeds, and cracked lips
What to do:
- Use a whole-home humidifier to maintain ideal indoor humidity (40–60%)
- Monitor humidity levels with a smart thermostat or hygrometer
Not only does proper humidity help fight illness—it also makes your home feel warmer and more comfortable, reducing your heating bill.
3. Inconsistent Heating Promotes Mold and Bacterial Growth
Fluctuating temperatures and poor air distribution can lead to damp, humid zones in certain rooms—ideal conditions for mold and bacteria to thrive.
Mold spores can trigger:
- Coughing and sneezing
- Eye and throat irritation
- Respiratory infections
What to do:
- Schedule an HVAC inspection to ensure even airflow throughout your home
- Seal leaky ducts and add zoning controls if needed
- Clean air vents regularly to prevent buildup of mold or bacteria
4. Poor Ventilation Traps Germs Inside
North Alabama winters often mean tightly sealed homes. While this helps with energy efficiency, it also traps pollutants and germs inside—allowing flu viruses and bacteria to linger.
Signs of poor ventilation:
- Stuffy air or lingering odors
- Headaches or fatigue
- Foggy windows from excess moisture
What to do:
- Install an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) or heat recovery ventilator (HRV)
- Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans frequently
- Keep bedroom doors slightly open to improve circulation
Proper ventilation refreshes your home with outside air while filtering out the stale, contaminated air—without losing precious warmth.
5. Neglected Ductwork Can Harbor Dust and Germs
Your ductwork acts like the respiratory system of your home. But over time, it can collect:
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Mold spores
- Dead skin cells
- Even rodent droppings in extreme cases
If not cleaned, these contaminants can be blown directly into your living space every time the heat turns on.
What to do:
- Schedule duct cleaning every 3–5 years
- Consider duct sealing to stop pollutants from entering through gaps
- Ask about antimicrobial duct treatments during your next HVAC service
6. Your HVAC System May Spread Germs Without Proper Upgrades
Standard HVAC systems recirculate the same air, which means if someone in the house is sick, airborne germs can keep circulating unless your system includes IAQ upgrades.
What to do:
Upgrade your HVAC with:
- Whole-home air purifiers (UV, ionic, or HEPA-based)
- UV germicidal lamps inside the system
- High-efficiency filters
- Smart thermostats that monitor air quality and humidity
These upgrades can significantly reduce airborne virus particles and keep your entire family breathing easier.
Bonus: HVAC Habits That Make a Difference During Flu Season
Small adjustments in how you use your HVAC system can improve your family’s health this season:
✅ Keep interior doors open for balanced airflow
✅ Run the fan periodically to circulate air—even when heat isn’t running
✅ Don’t block vents with furniture or rugs
✅ Clean return vents and registers monthly
A healthier HVAC system leads to a healthier home.
FAQs About HVAC & Flu Season Health
Q: Can air purifiers really help during flu season?
A: Yes. Whole-home air purifiers neutralize or trap viruses, bacteria, and allergens before they reach your lungs—reducing illness and symptoms.
Q: What humidity level is best for flu prevention?
A: Aim for 40–60% indoor humidity. This reduces virus transmission and helps your respiratory system function properly.
Q: Are duct cleanings really necessary?
A: Over time, ducts collect pollutants that can recirculate through your home. Cleaning is recommended every 3–5 years or more often if you notice dust, allergies, or illness.
Q: Will my HVAC system spread flu viruses if someone in my home is sick?
A: It can—especially if you don’t have air purification or filtration upgrades. Recirculated air may move pathogens from one room to another.
Q: Is there an HVAC solution for people with allergies or asthma?
A: Yes. HEPA filtration, UV purification, duct sealing, and humidity control all help reduce allergy and asthma triggers inside your home.
Contact Us To Protect Your Family This Flu Season
At Bunns & Bennett Heating & Air Conditioning, we help Alabama families protect what matters most—their health. From advanced air purification and duct cleaning to whole-home humidity solutions, we tailor indoor air quality upgrades that fit your HVAC system and your home’s specific needs.
Bunns & Bennett is a trusted American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Customer Care Dealer in Huntsville, AL.
Call us at (256) 536-0967 to schedule an indoor air quality consultation or HVAC service today. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for seasonal tips, home comfort advice, and local updates. We proudly serve Madison County and the Tennessee Valley with HVAC expertise you can trust—all year long.
