Just about everyone enjoys being outside in the nice weather, but the exception may be those with allergies. During some seasons, it can be hard to function outside. Unfortunately, there is no way to control allergens and the air quality outside. You can do your best to control them inside, however. Here are some tips to make breathing a little easier when inside your home.
Dehumidify
Humidity can intensify allergy symptoms. Additional moisture in the air can encourage the growth of mold and fungi, and is a breeding ground for dust mites. A whole-house dehumidifier can remove moisture from the air and prevent those contaminants from taking hold. It can also help keep your home cool in those warmer months. You should also contact a professional to help locate the causes of extra humidity in your home so that you can solve the problem at its source.
Air Conditioner Maintenance
It is never a bad idea to have a professional come and do regular maintenance on your HVAC system. Dust and debris can build up in the system, especially if it has been idle for several months. This gunk can then get distributed throughout the house when it is turned on. You should also be changing the filter every three months, and even more often if you have pets. A dirty and clogged filter means that the air coming through will not be very clean. Plus it can lead to other issues with your HVAC system that cause it to run inefficiently.
Open Your Windows
When you are not running your HVAC system, you can let some fresh air into the house by opening up some windows. However, it is best to be strategic about it, since most of the allergens that bother sufferers, like pollen, come from outside. Open the windows when the pollen count is low, and when it is not too windy. If it is windy and the pollen count is high, then set your HVAC system to re-circulate the air through the home.
Clean Your Home Thoroughly
Cleaning is very important for allergy sufferers, especially in the spring. That is why spring cleaning is so important. A deep clean will help get at the dirt and dust that has built up in hard to reach places like in floor boards. Clean off your ceiling fans so they are not spreading dust around as well. Keeping the fans moving will prevent dust from building up as well. Upholstery and bedding can collect dust mites and other germs, especially during the winter months, so make sure to clean and sanitize those as well. While cleaning can certainly be beneficial for allergy symptoms, disturbing the dust and dirt can aggravate those symptoms as well. You can wear a mask to help prevent inhaling allergens, and use natural cleaning products as much as possible.
Get Your Air Ducts Cleaned
It is amazing how much dirt, dust, and other debris can build up in ductwork. Mold can also develop if there is an accumulation of moisture. The spring is a perfect time to get your ducts professionally cleaned to have everything cleared out before it gets spread around your house by the HVAC system. You can also consider air duct sealing to keep your air as clean as possible at all times.
Clean Pets Outdoors
We all love our pets, but the fact is that they can be terrible for allergy sufferers. Pet dander is the main culprit. When you brush or wash your pets, this dander gets released into the air and into your lungs. It is a good idea to take them outside to brush them and to keep as much fur and dander out of the house as possible. Using a good pet hair brush can eliminate up to 90% of pet hair from getting into your home.
Allergies can be incredibly frustrating and difficult to live with. Make sure the air in your home is as clean as possible so that allergy sufferers can breathe a little easier.