Fight Indoor Allergies with Air Duct Cleaning and 9 Other Tips
Does allergy season seem to last all year long for you? If this is the case for you, you’re probably suffering from indoor allergies. While the causes of your allergies are unique to you, some of the most common allergy triggers include dust mites, pet dander, mold, cockroaches and other pests, and pollen.
To help you fight indoor allergies in your home, here are some tips on getting rid of or preventing some of the most common allergens.
1. Schedule a thorough air duct cleaning service.
Your HVAC system is made up of a series of ducts that carry air throughout your home. Over time, these ducts can collect dust, dirt, and other contaminants. Not only can buildup prevent your HVAC system from working properly, but it can be the source of stress for anyone suffering from allergies or asthma. Your HVAC technician can perform a thorough air duct cleaning service to ensure that your air ducts are carrying clean air throughout your home.
2. Keep the temperature in your home between 68 and 72 degrees.
Any colder than 68 degrees, and you’re likely going to be uncomfortable. Any warmer than 72 degrees, and you run the risk of attracting dust mites and mold—both of which thrive in warm environments.
3. Keep the humidity levels in your home under 50%.
In relation to the point above, mold and other allergens also thrive in humid environments. Excess humidity can also make your home more uncomfortable, making you feel sticky and warmer than you’d like. A dehumidifier can help keep the humidity levels throughout your home low.
4. Wash your bedsheets and pillowcases often.
Wash them with hot water, and try to do this at least once per week. This will help you kill off dust mites and allergens. You can find covers that prevent dust mites on your pillows and mattresses as well.
5. If you have pets, try to control their fur/hair.
Give your pets a bath once per week so they don’t collect dirt and dust on top of what could already be an allergy trigger. Vacuum frequently so that their fur doesn’t collect anywhere. And try to keep your pets out of the bedroom to avoid potential allergy triggers where you sleep.
6. Install HEPA air filters in your home.
HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air. These filters are designed to trap common allergens like pollen dust mites, cigarette smoke, and pollen. Be sure to change your air filters every 1-3 months to keep them working as efficiently as possible.
7. Remove clutter that can collect dust.
That stack of old magazines in the corner that never gets touched could just be sitting there, collecting dust and other allergens. If you have something like that in your home, either clean it frequently to avoid buildup or remove it from your home—as it could be doing more harm than good.
8. Use and exhaust fan when cooking or showering.
Cooking and showering can both lead to excess moisture in your kitchen or bathroom. By using an exhaust fan, you can help control the moisture to keep each room at an acceptable humidity level.
9. Wash your dishes daily to avoid the buildup of mold.
Don’t leave your dirty dishes sitting in the sink for a couple of days, as this can promote mold growth in your kitchen. Be sure that your dishes never get the chance to grow and collect mold by washing them after each use.
10. Avoid opening windows when it’s warm outside.
You have enough to worry about with indoor allergens already. By opening your windows when it’s warm, you could be letting in pollen and other outdoor triggers into your home. If you’re trying to cool off a room in a more allergy-friendly, opt for an air conditioner, fan, or closing the blinds instead.
Learn more about air duct cleaning and air quality services!
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