More than 50 million Americans are affected by allergies every year. It can be hard to narrow down what specific allergens are causing symptoms that mimic the common cold as far as indoor allergies are concerned. Problems such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes that last more than a week are likely a result of indoor allergens. Let’s take a look at all the different types of allergens that can reside in your home.
The Most Common Indoor Allergens
- Mold: Mold produces tiny, allergy-inducing spores capable of causing severe reactions in sensitive individuals. It thrives in damp environments like basements, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
- Pollen: Pollen can enter your home in a variety of ways. Pets and humans can bring pollen indoors as well as indoor plants that can produce pollen and trigger allergy symptoms.
- Dust Mites: Dust mites are likely everywhere in your home, consuming human skin flakes. They thrive in warm, humid environments like upholstery, bedding, and carpeting. Their body remnants and droppings are what cause most issues for allergy sufferers and can trigger asthma symptoms.
- Pets: Saliva, urine, and dander can become a huge issue for those with allergies. Not to mention, pets bring outdoor allergens indoor on their fur when going for walks or outside to do their business.
Way to Reduce Indoor Allergens
One of the best ways to combat indoor allergens is reducing exposure and regular cleaning. Here are a few ways to do that.
General Cleaning:
- Opt for easily cleaned surfaces like hardwood floors and leather furniture
- Keep an eye on and address water issues ASAP
- Use a premium air filter to keep allergens at bay and also keep humidity under control
- Change allergy filters often
- Clean and disinfect bathrooms regularly
- Dust and vacuum with a HEPA filter
- Wear a protective mask when cleaning
- Use allergen-proof fabric covers on mattresses, pillows, and box springs
- Wash bedding regularly
- Clean countertops regularly
- Wash hands after petting pets
How Effective Are Air Purifiers?
Whole-home or portable air purifiers can be a viable option to take control of indoor allergies. For instance, air purifiers with a HEPA filtration with MERV ratings of 17-19 are capable of trapping and removing 99.97 to 99.99% of particles 0.3 microns or larger. UV light versions can further reduce air pollutants while killing bacteria and mold.
If you have more questions about how to control indoor allergens in your home or office, please give our experts a call! If you’d like to make an appointment, contact us at 866-797-1535, or schedule an appointment online. Visit our website for more information on our vast number of services, including air conditioning, heating, duct cleaning, indoor air quality, maintenance, commercial HVAC, industrial, and marine services.
For the latest updates on all things HVAC from our Thermacon team, follow us on Facebook, and YouTube.
