Indoor Allergy Relief

Indoor allergies are a typical problem for millions of people. Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a critical part of reducing symptoms of your allergies and being able to reside in a healthy, comfortable living environment. Here, you’ll learn invaluable insight on how to improve IAQ for indoor allergy relief.

Understanding Indoor Allergies

Inside 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. These contaminants generate allergic reactions. When allergens are present in the air, they can lead to symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and more severe issues such as asthma attacks and other breathing difficulties. Ventilation, air filtration, cleaning and other proactive measures are essential to reduce the level of indoor allergens, improve indoor air quality and allow inhabitants to breathe easier.

Reducing Allergens Through Proper Ventilation

One of the most effective methods to reduce allergens is to enhance ventilation. Proper inflow of fresh, outdoor air considerably decreases the quantity of allergens in your home. Here are some ventilation-increasing steps to try:

• Open windows and doors when the weather makes it possible.

• Turn on exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen when showering or cooking to clear away heat, humidity and fumes.

• Buy a whole-home ventilation system to evenly exchange stagnant indoor air with healthy outdoor air across the entire house.

Air Filtration and Purification Systems

Air filters and purifiers are available in numerous different styles. Some are developed to clean the air in an individual room, while others integrate with the HVAC system for healthier air throughout the entire home. They also clear away allergens using a variety of tactics:

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

• Germicidal UV lights deactivate the DNA of bacteria, viruses and other microbes, rendering them unable to reproduce and reducing the spread 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 bind with positively charged airborne particles. The particles then cling to charged metal plates or become too heavy to remain airborne. Those that descend onto the floor can be cleaned up by dusting and vacuuming.

Regular Cleaning

Keeping your home clean is a huge step in reducing household allergens. Here are some recommended recommendations:

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

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

• Wash your bedding once a week in hot water to kill dust mites and do away with other lingering allergens.

• Use allergy-proof pillowcases and mattress covers to prevent dust mites from accumulating.

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

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

• Limit clutter and knickknacks, which collect dust and provide hiding places for allergens.

Controlling Humidity Levels

Maintaining the correct humidity level is vital for managing indoor allergens. High humidity fosters mold growth and dust mite populations, while low humidity contributes to dry skin and irritated airways. Aim to maintain an indoor relative humidity level ranging from 30-50 percent. The quickest way to do this is to operate a whole-house humidifier in the dry winter and a whole-house dehumidifier throughout the humid summer.

Indoor Plants and Allergies

Indoor plants can enhance IAQ by filtering out toxins and discharging oxygen. However, some plants produce irritating pollen, and watering them too often may encourage mold growth, adding to indoor allergies. When shopping for potted plants, opt for allergy-friendly varieties like spider plants, snake plants and bamboo palms, which help improve 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 requirements. Contact a Service Experts office near you today to discover more about how our services can help you attain indoor allergy relief.