Ever think about how many sneaky things can get into your house and make it harder to breathe? Even if you’re the most cleaning-obsessed person on the block, there are surprising culprits lurking in and around your home that can seriously mess with your indoor air quality (IAQ). Here’s the thing: good IAQ is important for everyone, not just people who suffer from allergies or with a more sensitive nose. It can affect your sleep, energy levels, and even your overall health. So, let’s take a look at some of the most common indoor allergens and pollutants and see how to get them out and keep them out of your home for good.
Pollen
Pollen is one of the most pervasive indoor allergens. It originates from trees, grasses, and weeds and enters your home through open windows, doors, and on clothing or pets. Once inside, pollen can circulate through your HVAC system and settle on surfaces, contributing to house dust. This fine, powdery substance can trigger allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Air conditioning can help by reducing the influx of pollen during peak seasons, but it’s important to regularly clean or replace filters to improve the air quality further.
Mold
Mold thrives in damp, humid environments. Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens are common areas where mold can grow. These fungi release spores into the air, which can cause respiratory issues and allergic reactions. Mold exposure can lead to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and even more severe health problems for those with compromised immune systems.
Pet Dander
Pet dander consists of tiny skin flakes shed by cats, dogs, and other furry animals. These microscopic particles can become airborne and settle on furniture, bedding, and carpets, leading to indoor allergens that can cause respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. Regular grooming of pets and frequent cleaning can help reduce allergens in the home. Using air purifiers with HEPA filters can also capture pet dander, improving indoor air quality and reducing allergy symptoms.
Dust and Mites
House dust is a mixture of tiny particles, including skin cells, fabric fibers, dirt, and more. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that thrive in warm, humid environments, feed on these particles. Both house dust and dust mites are major indoor allergens, causing symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion.
Soft Furniture
Soft furniture, like sofas and upholstered chairs, can harbor dust mites, pet dander, and other indoor allergens. These pollutants can become embedded in the fabric, making it challenging to remove them through regular cleaning. Consider using removable, washable covers for your furniture and steam-cleaning upholstery periodically. Poor IAQ can also develop from keeping windows open during high pollen seasons, which can cause allergen accumulation in your soft furniture.
Indoor Plants
While indoor plants can enhance the aesthetic of your home and improve air quality by removing toxins, they can also contribute to indoor air pollution. Overwatering plants can lead to mold growth in the soil, which can release spores into the air. Some people may also have allergic reactions to specific plants.
Improving Indoor Air Quality: What Can You Do?
Now that you know what some of the hidden elements are in your home, you’re probably wondering how on earth you can get them out! The good news is there are plenty of ways to improve your IAQ and set a higher standard for the air you breathe.
Use High-Efficiency Filters
Install high-efficiency filters in your HVAC system and air conditioners. These filters can capture small particles, including dust mites, pollen, and pet dander, significantly reducing indoor air pollution.
Clean Regularly
Frequent cleaning can remove many indoor allergens. Dust surfaces, vacuum carpets and rugs with a HEPA filter, and wash bedding and curtains regularly to reduce allergens in your home.
Control Humidity
Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to discourage mold and dust mites. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens.
Use Air Purifiers
Air purifiers with HEPA filters can effectively capture airborne pollutants, improving indoor air quality. Place them in high-traffic areas or rooms where allergens are most prevalent.
Ventilate Properly
Open windows and use exhaust fans to ventilate your home and reduce indoor air pollution. Ensure your ventilation system is in good working order to keep fresh air circulating.
Groom Pets Regularly
Regularly grooming pets can minimize pet dander in your home. Bathe and brush pets frequently and clean their bedding to reduce allergen buildup.
Make IAQ Troubles a Thing of the Past With Wendler Heating & Cooling!
Struggling with indoor air quality issues? Ready to improve the air you breathe and reduce allergens in your home? Wendler Heating & Cooling is here to help! If you’re in Conshohocken, PA, give us a call today to learn more about our IAQ solutions. Or work with our heating and AC maintenance team to keep your AC clear and avoid allergen buildup within your systems.
Let’s partner together to make your home a healthier place.
