Summer might be peak allergy season, but indoor air quality affects your health year-round. If your home is stuffy, musty, or laden with dust, you can still enjoy clean air. Here are three EPA-recommended strategies for eliminating allergens and pollutants.
Allergen Source Control
Source control is one of the most valuable strategies for stopping particulates in their tracks. Some of the most common offenders include pollen, pet dander, lint, and carpet fibers. Use these tips to remove dust and control airborne allergens.
- Place doormats on both sides of the threshold to catch pollen and dirt.
- Cut down on clutter and knickknacks for easier cleaning.
- Dust hard and soft surfaces from top to bottom before vacuuming.
- Vacuum once or twice per week using fresh bags or filters.
- Take a few minutes to clean ceiling fans, baseboards and dusty areas.
Increased Home Ventilation
Ventilation dramatically reduces the concentration of volatile organic compounds and chemical pollutants. Start by using exhaust fans when cooking or cleaning. These systems vent fumes and remove excess moisture, which prevents secondary issues with mold and dust mites. If your home is tightly sealed, a mechanical ventilator is a next-level solution that distributes fresh temperature-balanced air across your living spaces.
Air Purifiers and Filtration
Once you’ve increased your home’s ventilation and removed allergens at the source, filtration can finish the job. Standard HVAC filters are good at protecting your heating and cooling equipment from dust, but they don’t improve your indoor air quality significantly. If you’re battling airborne particles or allergy triggers, a whole-house air purifier might be the best solution. Once linked to your HVAC ducts, these products scrub all of the air in your home up to eight times per hour to provide lasting relief.
For more ways to improve your indoor air quality, call Acute Heating & Cooling. We offer a complete selection of comfort-enhancing products and services.