Spring is almost here, and with the sunshine and flowers comes…allergies! From an increase in pollen to mold spores generated by the excessive humidity that we have in Tampa Bay, FL springtime allergies can take the fun out of the nice weather.
It doesn’t have to be this way! Here are Integrity’s top tips on how to improve the indoor air quality inside your home, and survive another allergy season!
How Can I Manage Pollen and Dust in My Home?
Allergens are any substances, such as pollen, dust, mold spores, pet dander, etc. that are eaten or inhaled and cause an allergic reaction from the immune system. Essentially, an allergic reaction is the immune system’s way of attacking the allergen as an invading foreign object, whether it is actually a threat or not.
Since allergens are usually microscopic in size, they can be brought in from outside, produced indoors, and can be blown around by your HVAC system.
Protect your home from allergens, call the indoor air quality experts at Integrity Home Solutions today: [hls_phone_number]
Allergens can be brought in from outside, produced indoors,
and can be blown around by your HVAC system.
Improving Indoor Air Quality
One of the best things that you can do to mitigate allergies is to improve your home’s indoor air quality. Amazingly enough, the EPA has found that indoor air quality is often worse than the air outside because allergens in the air inside the home are more concentrated and are being circulated by the HVAC system throughout the home. The EPA estimates that 60% of people in the United States are exposed to pet dander, and 80% are exposed to dust mites. Sound gross? By improving the air quality in your home, you can help minimize allergies and asthma triggers.
Here are 3 ways to improve your home’s indoor air quality and help your allergies:
- Use air cleaners and filters to clean indoor air
- Keep indoor areas well ventilated
- Minimize your contact with indoor airborne allergens
How to Control Indoor Allergens
There are two parts to control indoor allergens in your home: cleaning to eliminate them and filtering the air to prevent the spread.
The best way to improve your indoor air quality and essentially “scrub” the air of allergens is to install an air cleaner and dehumidifier in the home as well as having the right filters for your HVAC system. Running your AC versus opening the windows can also help reduce allergens in your home, like pollen or mold.
To adequately control allergens, try these tips:
Dust:
Eliminate as much dust in your home as possible. Dust mites feed on dust, and can exacerbate allergies. Avoid wall to wall carpet if possible, and use allergen resistant covers on your pillows and mattress. Plus, wash your bedding once a week to kill dust mites.
Vacuum frequently:
At least once per week. Vacuuming reduces the atmospheric allergens in your home. However, a poor quality vacuum might actually make things worse, as they might just stir up dust and push small particles into the air.
Look for a vacuum that is allergy and asthma friendly and one that has been tested to reduce airborne allergens. You may also want to get any carpets deep cleaned 1-2 a year to remove dirt, debris, and allergens present.
Eliminate pet dander:
We love our furry friends, but sometimes they can make our allergies worse! Pet dander is made up of cells that are shed from your pet’s skin and can contribute to poor indoor air quality.
To help keep pet dander at bay, wash your pet’s bedding and toys often, and bath and brush your pet frequently too!
Keep doors and windows closed:
When the pollen count is high, like in spring and fall, keep your windows and doors shut. Use your AC to cool your home, and reduce humidity. Don’t forget to change your HVAC filters! How often depends on your home usage and family; check out our guide here.
We know you can handle changing your air filters. For everything else, such as AC maintenance, emergency repair, and duct cleaning, you can trust the dependable technicians at Integrity Home Solutions in Tampa Bay.
HVAC Tips to Improve Indoor Air Quality
If you suffer from seasonal allergies or asthma, we recommend you perform the following steps:
- Replace air filters often
- Service your HVAC system seasonally
- Get your ductwork cleaned
- Use air purifiers in your home
- Install a dehumidifier or humidifier
- Get your indoor air quality evaluated
- Install special filters that trap smaller particles
Related: How Often Should I Get My Air Ducts Cleaned?
Want to improve your indoor air quality? We can install media air cleaners, electronic air cleaners, UV light air sanitizers, and dehumidifiers if mold or humidity is a concern! Call us today: [hls_phone_number]
Improve Indoor Air Quality
At Integrity Home Solutions, our number one goal is always to help you live your best life at home with cleaner, fresher, and healthier air. Call on our air quality professionals anytime!
We’re happy to help you improve your indoor air quality or fix an emergency that may arise unexpectedly. Breathe easier this pollen season! Give us a call at [hls_phone_number], chat with us, or schedule an appointment today. We’re here for you 24/7!
