Many allergy sufferers stay indoors in the fall to avoid high pollen counts that cause uncomfortable symptoms such as sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, runny noses and nasal congestion. Unfortunately, a well-sealed home can trap allergens such as animal dander, dust mites, mold spores and pollen. To make your home a safe haven from allergies this season, try these targeted tips:
- Control the dust-mite population – These microscopic eight-legged insects feast on shed skin cells, and they thrive in carpeting, upholstery and bedding. They absorb the moisture they need from the air, so keep the indoor humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. Laundering bedding weekly in 120-degree or higher water and switching to dust-proof pillow and mattress protectors can help too.
- Reduce animal dander accumulations – It’s a protein found in the dander that triggers allergic reactions. Bathing the family pet(s) regularly and dusting and vacuuming frequently can help limit exposure to dander, but it’s wise to keep animals off of upholstered furniture and out of the bedrooms as well.
- Keep plant pollen outdoors – Pollen drifts into a home through open windows, but it also gets carried in on clothing, footwear and the family pets. Keeping the windows closed and running the HVAC system to help filter the air can keep indoor pollen count down. Always change footwear and clothing and wipe down pets’ coats after spending time outdoors, too. If allergies are severe, talk to an HVAC contractor about your options for adding whole-house air filtration to the system.
- Prevent mold growth – Fungi spores are in the air and on most surfaces in a home. All they need is warmth and moisture to proliferate, so it’s essential to control indoor humidity to stop their growth. Run a portable dehumidifier in a damp basement and use exhaust fans to vent excess moisture from the kitchen and bathrooms. If you find small areas of mold, kill them right away with a 5 percent bleach solution.
To learn more effective ways to combat allergies this season, contact us today at Detmer and Sons. We’ve helped make life more comfortable for Dayton and Springfield area homeowners since 1978.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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