Indoor Allergy Relief

Indoor allergies are a typical problem for millions of people. Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a crucial part of controlling your allergies and creating a healthy, comfortable living environment. Here, you’ll learn useful strategies on how to improve IAQ for indoor allergy relief.

Understanding Indoor Allergies

Household allergens include dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, tobacco smoke, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), bacteria and viruses, as well as pollen that makes its way inside the house. These contaminants cause allergic reactions. When allergens are present in the air, they can result in symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and more severe issues like asthma attacks and other breathing issues. Ventilation, air filtration, cleaning and other proactive actions are essential to minimize the amount of indoor allergens, improve indoor air quality and allow inhabitants to breathe easier.

Reducing Allergens Through Proper Ventilation

One of the most effective techniques to reduce allergens is to increase ventilation. Proper inflow of fresh, outdoor air substantially decreases the amount of allergens in your home. Here are some ventilation-increasing techniques to try:

• Open windows and doors when the weather permits.

• Use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen when showering or cooking to release heat, humidity and fumes.

• Install a whole-home ventilation system to evenly exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air across the entire house.

Air Filtration and Purification Systems

Air filters and purifiers are made in a number of different styles. Some are created to clean the air in an individual room, while others work with the HVAC system for healthier air throughout the house. They also clear away allergens using numerous tactics:

• Filtration systems—such as media filters, electrostatic filters and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters—capture airborne particles in tightly woven material, stopping them from swirling through the house.

• Germicidal UV lights deactivate the DNA of bacteria, viruses and other microbes, leaving them unable to duplicate and reducing the circulation of germs throughout your home.

• Air purifiers outfitted with activated carbon filters get rid of odors and chemicals from the air, resulting in a clean, fresh-smelling house.

• Electronic air cleaners contain negative ion generators that bond with positively charged airborne particles. The particles then cling to charged metal plates or are too heavy to remain airborne. Those that fall onto furniture can be cleaned up by dusting and vacuuming.

Regular Cleaning

Keeping your home clean is a crucial step in decreasing household allergens. Here are some suggested tips:

• Vacuum your home at least once per week using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to remove dust mites and other contaminants from carpets and upholstery.

• Choose hypoallergenic bedding, such as organic cotton, bamboo or silk, which is naturally allergen-resistant.

• Wash your bedding weekly in hot water to eliminate dust mites and remove other lingering allergens.

• Utilize allergy-proof pillowcases and mattress covers to stop dust mites from accumulating.

• Clean countertops, floors, furniture and other areas on a regular basis.

• Keep pets out of your bedroom to decrease dander buildup in the place where you sleep.

• Reduce clutter and knickknacks, which collect dust and create hiding places for allergens.

Controlling Humidity Levels

Maintaining the appropriate humidity level is imperative for dealing with indoor allergens. High humidity fosters mold growth and dust mite populations, while low humidity contributes to dry skin and unhealthy airways. Aim to maintain an indoor relative humidity level ranging from 30-50 percent. The quickest way to do this is to run a whole-house humidifier through the dry winter and a whole-house dehumidifier throughout the humid summer.

Indoor Plants and Allergies

Indoor plants can increase IAQ by filtering out toxins and releasing oxygen. However, some plants produce irritating pollen, and giving them too much water may stimulate mold growth, adding to indoor allergies. When choosing potted plants, opt for allergy-friendly varieties like spider plants, snake plants and bamboo palms, which help increase indoor air quality and are unlikely to cause allergic reactions.

Indoor Air Quality Solutions in North America

Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is committed to helping our customers enjoy a healthy and comfortable home environment. With our expertise in indoor air quality solutions and your satisfaction guaranteed, we are the perfect partner to fulfill all your IAQ needs. Contact a Service Experts office near you today to find out more about how our services can help you achieve indoor allergy relief.