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.

However, you can take steps to improve your home’s indoor air quality and minimize allergy symptoms. In this post, we’ll share Integrity’s top tips for managing allergens and enjoying the pleasant weather.

What are allergens?

Allergens are substances like pollen, dust, mold spores, and pet dander that can trigger an allergic reaction when inhaled or ingested. Your immune system treats these allergens as invading foreign objects, even if they aren’t actual threats. Since allergens are microscopic, they can easily enter your home, be produced indoors, and circulate through your HVAC system.

How to Manage Pollen and Dust in Your Home

Pollen and dust are common allergens that can make life uncomfortable for those with allergies or respiratory issues. Here are some effective strategies to help you manage these allergens in your home:

Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen count days, typically during spring and fall. Use your air conditioner to cool your home and reduce humidity.
Change your HVAC filters regularly. The frequency depends on your home’s usage and family size, but aim to replace them every 1-3 months.
Use high-quality, allergy-grade air filters in your HVAC system to trap smaller particles and allergens.
Vacuum frequently, at least once a week, using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. This will help capture dust, pollen, and other allergens from your floors and carpets.
Minimize clutter and remove dust-collecting items like knick-knacks, magazines, and books from your living spaces.
Opt for easy-to-clean flooring options, such as hardwood, tile, or linoleum, instead of wall-to-wall carpeting.
Use allergen-resistant covers on your pillows and mattresses to minimize exposure to dust mites.
Wash bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and blankets, in hot water (at least 130°F) once a week to kill dust mites.
Maintain a relative humidity level between 30-50% in your home to discourage dust mite growth and mold spores.
Consider investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter to help remove airborne allergens from your indoor environment.

Common Allergens in Tampa Bay, FL:

Pollen: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is a major allergen in the area, especially during spring and fall.
Mold: High humidity levels in Tampa Bay can lead to mold growth, both indoors and outdoors.
Dust mites: These microscopic pests thrive in warm, humid environments and are often found in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture.
Pet dander: Dander from cats, dogs, and other furry pets can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.

Signs That Allergens Are Affecting Your Indoor Air Quality

1. Allergy symptoms: If you or your family members experience symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, congestion, or difficulty breathing while inside your home, it may indicate that allergens are present in your indoor air.

2. Musty odors: A musty or stale smell in your home can be a sign of mold growth, which can release allergens into the air.

3. Visible dust: If you notice a rapid accumulation of dust on surfaces shortly after cleaning, it may suggest that your indoor air contains a high concentration of dust particles and allergens.

4. Dirty air filters: If your HVAC system’s air filters become clogged or dirty more quickly than usual, it can be a sign that your indoor air has a high level of allergens.

5. Respiratory issues: If you or your family members experience an increase in respiratory problems, such as asthma attacks or difficulty breathing, it may indicate that allergens in your indoor air are triggering these issues.

6. Itchy skin or rashes: Allergens in the air can sometimes cause skin irritation, itchiness, or rashes, particularly in sensitive individuals.

7. Worsening symptoms at night: Dust mites often inhabit bedding and mattresses, so if you notice that your allergy symptoms worsen at night or upon waking, it could be a sign that dust mites are affecting your indoor air quality.

8. Persistent humidity: High indoor humidity levels can create an ideal environment for mold growth and dust mite proliferation. If you notice persistent humidity or moisture in your home, it may contribute to increased allergen levels in your indoor air.

If you observe any of these signs, it’s essential to take action to improve your indoor air quality. This may include cleaning more frequently, using air purifiers, upgrading your HVAC filters, or seeking professional assistance from indoor air quality experts like those at Integrity Home Solutions.

The Importance of Indoor Air Quality

According to the EPA, indoor air quality is often worse than outdoor air because allergens are more concentrated and circulated by your HVAC system. Approximately 60% of people in the United States are exposed to pet dander, while 80% are exposed to dust mites. Improving your home’s air quality can help minimize allergies and asthma triggers.

Three Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality:

Use air cleaners and filters to purify indoor air
Ensure proper ventilation in indoor areas
Minimize contact with indoor airborne allergens

Controlling Indoor Allergens

To effectively control indoor allergens, you must focus on both cleaning and air filtration.

Cleaning Tips:

Eliminate dust by avoiding wall-to-wall carpeting
Allergen-resistant covers on pillows and mattresses
Wash bedding weekly to kill dust mites
Vacuum frequently using an allergy and asthma-friendly vacuum. 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.
Deep clean carpets 1-2 times a year
Wash pet bedding and toys often, and bathe and brush pets frequently to reduce pet dander

Air Filtration Tips:

Install air cleaners, dehumidifiers, and appropriate filters for your HVAC system
Run your AC instead of opening windows to reduce pollen and mold
Change HVAC filters regularly

HVAC Maintenance for Improved Air Quality: To further improve indoor air quality, consider the following HVAC maintenance tasks:

Replace air filters frequently
Schedule seasonal HVAC system service
Clean your ductwork
Use air purifiers, dehumidifiers, or humidifiers as needed
Have your indoor air quality evaluated
Install special filters that trap smaller particles

At Integrity Home Solutions, our goal is to help you enjoy cleaner, fresher, and healthier air at home. Our air quality professionals are available to assist you in improving your indoor air quality or addressing any unexpected emergencies. Don’t let allergies keep you from enjoying the beautiful spring weather in Tampa Bay, FL.