If your allergies seem worse inside your home than outside, you’re not imagining it.
February in Tallahassee is when many homeowners start sneezing more, waking up congested, or dealing with itchy eyes and headaches. The confusing part is that pollen season is just getting started. So why does it already feel bad?
For many homes, the problem is not outside air.
It’s what’s circulating through the ductwork.
Why Allergies Often Flare Up Indoors in Late Winter
During winter, your home stays closed up more than usual. Windows stay shut. Fresh air is limited. Your HVAC system recirculates the same air over and over.
If your ductwork contains dust, pet dander, pollen, or mold particles, those contaminants do not disappear.
They get redistributed.
Every time your system runs, it can push allergens through the vents and into every room. Bedrooms. Living areas. Even the air you breathe while sleeping.
That is why allergy symptoms often feel worse indoors during February.
What Actually Builds Up Inside Your Ducts
Most homeowners assume ductwork stays clean because it is hidden.
In reality, ducts collect contaminants over time, especially in North Florida homes.
Common buildup includes:
- Dust and skin particles
- Pet hair and dander
- Pollen pulled in through small leaks
- Mold spores from humidity
- Construction debris from past renovations
Once inside, these particles settle and stay there until disturbed by airflow.
Signs Your Ducts May Be Making Allergies Worse
Dirty ductwork does not always come with obvious warning signs. Many homes have a problem without realizing it.
Common clues include:
- Allergy symptoms that improve when you leave the house
- Dust buildup shortly after cleaning
- Musty or stale odors when the system turns on
- Uneven airflow between rooms
- Increased sneezing or congestion at night
If you have pets, older ductwork, or have never had your ducts inspected, the odds increase.
Why February Is the Worst Time to Ignore It
February is a transition month.
Humidity starts to rise. Pollen begins to appear. Your system runs enough to circulate contaminants but not enough to burn them off.
That combination makes indoor air quality problems more noticeable.
Ignoring duct issues now often leads to bigger problems in spring and summer when systems run constantly and airflow increases.
Does Duct Cleaning Always Help?
Not every home needs duct cleaning. That matters.
But when ducts are contaminated, damaged, or leaking, cleaning and sealing can make a noticeable difference in comfort and air quality.
A professional inspection is the only way to know for sure. Reputable HVAC companies will inspect before recommending service, not the other way around.
How Cleaner Ducts Support Better Indoor Air Quality
When ducts are clean and sealed properly:
- Fewer allergens circulate through the home
- Filters last longer and work better
- Airflow improves
- Odors are reduced
- Allergy symptoms often ease
For many Tallahassee homeowners, duct inspection is the missing piece when filters and air purifiers alone are not enough.
When to Schedule a Duct Inspection
If you or someone in your home struggles with allergies, February is an ideal time to check duct conditions.
Before spring pollen peaks.
Before AC season ramps up.
Before symptoms get worse.
Catching issues early can improve comfort now and help your system perform better all year.
Final Thoughts
February is the best time to address indoor air quality issues.
Once spring arrives, pollen levels spike and HVAC systems run longer, pushing allergens through your home nonstop. Waiting only makes the problem harder to control.
Call Benson’s today to schedule a duct inspection and take control of your home’s air before allergy season peaks.
