Indoor allergies are a typical challenge for millions of people. Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a very important part of reducing symptoms of your allergies and creating a healthy, comfortable living environment. Here, you’ll find valuable strategies 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 into your home. These particles trigger allergic reactions. When allergens are present in the air, they can induce 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 needed 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 methods to reduce allergens is to improve ventilation. Appropriate inflow of fresh, outdoor air dramatically decreases the amount of allergens in your home. Here are some ventilation-increasing steps to try:
- Open windows and doors when the weather allows.
- Run 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 stuffy indoor air with clean outdoor air throughout the entire house.
Air Filtration and Purification Systems
Air filters and purifiers come in a number of different styles. Some are created to clean the air in a single room, while others operate in conjunction with the HVAC system for healthier air throughout the entire home. They also eliminate allergens using several different methods:
- Filtration systems—like media filters, electrostatic filters and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters—capture airborne particles in tightly woven material, stopping them from circulating throughout the house.
- Germicidal UV lights deactivate the DNA of bacteria, viruses and other microbes, rendering them unable to replicate and reducing the spread of germs throughout your home.
- Air purifiers with activated carbon filters eliminate odors and chemicals from the air, contributing to 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 become too heavy to stay airborne. Those that fall onto the floor can be eliminated by dusting and vacuuming.
Regular Cleaning
Keeping your home clean is a crucial step in reducing home allergens. Here are some recommended tips:
- Vacuum your home at least once a week with a vacuum cleaner that has 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 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 areas frequently.
- Keep pets out of your bedroom to decrease dander buildup in the place where you sleep.
- Reduce clutter and knickknacks, which collect dust and provide hiding places for allergens.
Controlling Humidity Levels
Maintaining the correct humidity level is fundamental for managing indoor allergens. High humidity supports mold growth and dust mite populations, while low humidity results in dry skin and inflamed airways. The goal should be to achieve an indoor relative humidity level 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 releasing oxygen. However, some plants produce irritating pollen, and watering them too often may encourage mold growth, aggravating indoor allergies. When shopping for potted plants, opt for allergy-friendly types 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 dedicated to creating a healthy and comfortable home environment for our customers. 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 find out more about how our services can help you find indoor allergy relief.