Breathe Easier With These Simple Tips
Allergies are the one thing that can turn a beautiful spring day into an exercise in agony. With all the pollen, dust, and other allergens in the air, people suffer from frustrating symptoms like watery eyes, runny noses, sore throats, and sneezing. However, what many people don’t realize is that the indoor air in their home is just as much to blame for their allergies as the spring vegetation.
To gain a simple advantage over the effects of allergies, homeowners should take steps to reduce the pollutants they are exposed to during the spring to clean up the air inside the home and give their lungs a break. Here are some easy tips to help improve indoor air quality in a home and help mitigate the symptoms of allergies and respiratory illnesses.
Let in Fresh Air
The first tip for cleaning up the air in the home can seem counterintuitive. Why should owners risk letting pollen and dust into their homes if they are already suffering? The answer is the air in the house is already host to plenty of allergens, and these pollutants can build up to harmful levels since the air is constantly recirculated around the house.
Opening the windows allows fresh air to come into the home and lets the old stale air out. Sure, the outdoor air will carry some pollen and dust, but the quantities are far lower than the polluted indoor air. For added safety, homeowners should check local forecasts and aim to open windows on days with low pollen counts. Doing so can greatly freshen the air in the home and lead to a reduction of allergy symptoms.
Replace Air Filters On Time
One of the most important steps for improving indoor air quality is to replace air filters on time. Air filters are used to trap and remove airborne particles, such as dust, pollen, and other allergens, from the circulating air in a home. If these particles are not removed by an effective filter, they can accumulate in the house and contribute to health issues such as allergies and other respiratory concerns.
The type of air filter used, the frequency with which it is changed, and how well it fits into the home's HVAC system can all impact the quality of indoor air inside a home. It’s recommended to clean or replace filters every one to three months, depending on the type of filter and factors, such as whether anyone in the household has allergies. Additionally, a clogged filter will restrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of an HVAC system, leading to higher energy bills, so it's important not to wait too long before replacing them.
Practice Good Housekeeping Habits
To improve the air quality in a home and reduce the effects of allergies, homeowners should also practice better housekeeping. Particles that can cause allergy symptoms are often found on furniture, floors, carpets, and bedding. Regularly cleaning these surfaces will help remove these allergens from the air. To reduce the total amount of allergens and pollutants in the house, perform cleaning tasks regularly like:
- Sweep and mop hard floors
- Vacuum rugs and carpets
- Wash curtains
- Use a damp cloth to capture dust from surfaces
- Launder bedding and towels
- Use the exhaust vent when cooking
Additionally, homeowners can reach out to professionals if they need more effective or comprehensive indoor air quality solutions, such as installing an air cleaner or air purifier.
About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air
Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has over two decades of experience serving St. George, UT, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day service, and the latest technology. Call them today for air filter replacement or other indoor air quality services in St. George, UT.
