Spring has arrived in Washington, and most people are looking forward to reengaging with fresh air pursuits. Unfortunately, the change of seasons also heralds the reemergence of pollen and other allergens that make allergy sufferers miserable with sneezing, itchy eyes and respiratory distress. And while the great outdoors can be a minefield of allergens, your home’s indoor air quality is just as important for reducing allergen exposure and finding relief from allergy symptoms.
Here are some great tips on how to improve indoor air quality at home.
Understanding Allergy Season and Indoor Air Quality
Allergy season in Washington can be lengthy and severe with pollen counts often reaching high levels from February to November. Common allergens in the state include tree pollen from cedar, alder, willow, oak and birch in the spring; grass pollen in the summer; and weed pollen from ragweed and thistle in the fall.
Our customers often ask “Why are my seasonal allergies worse indoors?” It’s because outdoor allergens can infiltrate homes through open windows, ventilation systems and daily activities, and combine with indoor allergens like dust mites, mold spores and pet dander to trigger allergy symptoms year-round. So, with a double-whammy of allergens in your home, it’s important to control your indoor air quality to provide relief, keeping it as clean as possible.
Practical Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality
Use High-Quality Air Purifiers
Installing an air purifier in your home will have you breathing easier with improved indoor air quality. Look for purifiers equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, which are capable of trapping particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pollen, dust mites and pet dander.
Studies have shown that HEPA filters can effectively reduce indoor particulate matter and allergen concentrations by an average of 50% or higher. This reduction in airborne allergens can greatly improve symptoms for those suffering from allergic rhinitis and asthma.
When choosing an air purifier, consider the size of the room where it will be used. The best placement is often in the bedroom, where you spend most of your time at home. Air purifiers are also the answer to how to improve indoor air quality in your office.
Maintain Your HVAC System
Your home’s HVAC system plays a big part in maintaining indoor air quality, and regular maintenance is the best way to keep it operating smoothly and prevent it from being a factor in poor indoor air quality. Start by changing your air filters regularly, typically every 1-3 months, depending on usage and the type of filter, to prevent allergen buildup which can be circulated into your house.
Consider upgrading to high-efficiency filters with a MERV rating of 11 or higher to trap smaller particles more effectively. Professional HVAC maintenance is also important. Schedule annual check-ups to ensure your system is clean, working properly and not spreading allergens throughout your home.
Clean and Maintain Air Ducts
Just like your filters, your air ducts can accumulate dust, pollen and mold, which can then be blown throughout your home when your HVAC system is running.
Professional air duct cleaning can remove these accumulated allergens, helping to improve overall indoor air quality. While the frequency of duct cleaning can vary depending on your home’s specific needs, consider having them inspected and cleaned every 3-5 years, or more frequently if you notice visible mold growth or excessive dust coming from your vents.
Keep Your Home Clean and Allergen Free
Regular and more effective house cleaning is also key to maintaining good indoor air quality and reducing allergen levels in your home.
- Vacuum often using a HEPA-filter vacuum cleaner. This is especially important for carpeted areas, which can trap allergens.
- Dust surfaces with a damp cloth rather than a duster or dry cloth to capture and remove allergens rather than dispersing them into the air.
- Wash bedding, curtains and other fabrics in hot water weekly to kill dust mites and remove other allergens.
- Clear the clutter in your home, as it creates more places for dust and allergens to accumulate and makes cleaning more difficult.
- Use door mats at all entrances and consider a “shoes-off” policy in the house to limit the amount of outdoor allergens brought into your home.
- Seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors to prevent outdoor allergens from entering.
While Washington’s allergy season can be a real challenge for sufferers, taking proactive steps to improve your indoor air quality at home and at the office can significantly reduce your exposure to allergens and help to alleviate allergy symptoms. By using these strategies, from installing high-quality air purifiers and maintaining your HVAC system to keeping your home extra clean, you can create a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment and find some much-needed relief.
Want to learn more about how to improve indoor air quality at home? Ready to combat seasonal allergies with clean ductwork or an air purifier? Contact Apex Air today to schedule an appointment.