Many homeowners suffer symptoms caused by indoor allergens found within their Wilmer, AL houses. While the severity of these symptoms can vary widely, they are nonetheless unpleasant. Here are the most common allergens to look out for in your home.
1. Biological Growth Due to High Humidity
When the climate inside becomes too humid during the summer, the excess moisture can cause all sorts of problems for homeowners. One way to combat this proactively is by installing dehumidifiers in areas that are prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms and basements. Exhaust fans are also a good idea for the bathroom.
Another way to prevent biological growth in humid areas is to make sure you repair and seal any leaks. Proper ventilation can prevent further growth, too, as the outside air can help dry out humid spaces.
2. Dust Mites
Dust mites are incredibly prevalent in virtually every home and are one of the most common allergens that a homeowner can face. One of the easiest ways to help prevent dust mites in your home is by enclosing your mattresses and pillows in allergen-proof covers. We also recommend washing your bedding weekly.
Wiping down surfaces, vacuuming and mopping floors are other ways to keep dust mites at bay. Of course, a well-maintained HVAC system can also help purify the air so that dust mites can’t settle in your home.
3. Cockroaches
Many people equate cockroaches to dirty or unkempt environments. However, this is simply not the case.
In fact, these critters can show up in any kind of environment, so long as there is moisture, warmth and some food. It’s their shedding and fecal matter that trigger allergies.
To avoid attracting cockroaches into your home, place all food in sealed containers and wash dishes immediately after use. Wipe down and sanitize surfaces regularly, too.
4. Pet Allergens
Pet allergies can come on almost instantaneously after contact with pet dander. To help eliminate these particles from floating around in the air, have your HVAC technician install an air filter to ensure purity.
It also helps to vacuum regularly if you have carpeting in your home or sweep if you have hard floors. This reduces the amount of dander, fur and other animal-based allergens collecting on the floor.
5. Pollen
While you might equate pollen to outdoor allergies, the fact of the matter is that pollen can affect you indoors as well. Pollen can enter your home either via open windows or by attaching itself to your clothing. Of course, if your HVAC system has leaky ducts, the ducts can suck pollen into the house and set off your allergies.
Have a licensed HVAC technician perform an inspection on your system as soon as possible to ensure that there are no leaks or any sort of physical damage to the ductwork. Closing all windows during the warm months is something you can do on your own to reduce pollen in the home.
6. Volatile Organic Compounds
A properly functioning HVAC system is crucial when it comes to reducing or eliminating volatile organic compounds in your home. High-quality air filters and well-maintained equipment ensure proper ventilation and airflow within the home. It’s also important to locate the items in your house that contain high levels of volatile organic compounds such as paint and chemicals and either replace or store them in lesser-used areas of the home.
Stay Up on Maintenance
Now that you’re aware of the main allergens a homeowner can face, it’s important that we stress why you need to stay up on the maintenance schedule of whatever HVAC system you use. Always have licensed HVAC technicians perform the work as they can spot and repair small problems before they become large ones.
If you want more advice on how to reduce indoor allergens in Wilmer, AL, contact Air Specialty. Improving indoor air quality is one of our main goals.
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