Many people with allergies will avoid the great outdoors when the air is full of pollen and other allergens. However, indoor air quality is just as important in reducing allergy symptoms and preventing respiratory health problems. Allergens like dust, pollen, and animal dander can make their way into your home, triggering allergy symptoms, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems. The key to reducing allergy issues indoors is preventing allergens from accumulating in your home by controlling your indoor air quality.
How to Reduce Allergens in Your Home
It takes some work, but reducing allergens in your home is possible. With these tips, you can be on your way to better controlling your indoor air quality and reducing allergy symptoms for you and your family:
Keep your floors clean.
One of the biggest offenders when it comes to trapping allergens in your home is your floors. People bring dirt, dust, and other pollutants into your home every time they step inside after being outdoors. To reduce allergy symptoms, you must keep your floors clean:
- Vacuum using a machine with a HEPA filter. HEPA vacuum filters help reduce the concentrations of pollutants like pollen, pet dander, and dust that accumulate on your carpet. Vacuum high traffic more often, and don’t forget to use the vacuum on walls, furniture, and other areas where dust collects.
- Mop up the dust. Mopping helps you gather up the dust that vacuuming may have left behind. For best results, use a microfiber mop and dust cloth without any cleaning solution. If you have a traditional mop, use water instead of soaps or detergents, which can bring harmful chemicals into your home.
- Trap allergens with a floor mat. Place a floor mat by every door that leads outside. This helps trap the dirt that people bring in on their shoes, which can be full of all kinds of chemicals and pollutants.
Monitor humidity levels.
Controlling humidity also helps you keep allergens under control as dust and mold love moisture. Your HVAC system can help keep humidity levels balanced and reduce allergens. To avoid moisture buildup, monitor indoor humidity levels and try to keep them between 30 and 50%. Use ceiling fans to improve air circulation and reduce moisture buildup. You can also use a stand-alone or whole-home dehumidifier to help control humidity levels. You should also prevent any standing water by emptying the humidifier and window AC units as well as fixing any leaking plumbing.
Consider an air purifier.
Air purifiers are an excellent option for those with severe allergies or asthma. Like the dehumidifier, these are available in both a stand-alone and whole-house system. Most models have a HEPA filter that can be cleaned regularly to maintain effectiveness. The air purifier reduces allergens like dust and pet dander, making it easy for those with allergies and asthma to breathe easier. Some models even have an indoor air quality monitor that can help you stay diligent about keeping your home clean.
Are you looking for HVAC solutions that provide better indoor air quality? We would love to chat. Call us today to speak to an HVAC specialist about your options.
