Stop Allergies in Their Tracks! Tips On Ventilating Your Home in the Change of Seasons

The change of seasons through the fall can be some of the most beautiful times of the year. However for those who suffer from allergies, it can also be the most dreaded time of year. If you’re sensitive to allergies and suffer from sniffling, sneezing and wheezing that comes along with New Jersey’s peak allergy season, ventilating the home can help to alleviate some of your symptoms.

Ventilating the Home To Alleviate Allergy Symptoms

Studies by the Environmental Protection Agency, among others, show that indoor air pollution is at least twice as high as outdoor air pollution. Since we spend 90% of our time indoors, this can make a big impact on our health. It doesn’t have to be that way though. A few culprits of poor indoor air quality (IAQ) commonly show up uninvited. You can kick them to the curb with a few simple tips.

Mold and Mildew

Sometimes unseen, mold can play a bigger role in your allergies that you realize. Mold spores are a common allergy trigger that can emit particulates reducing the quality of your indoor air. If mold is growing throughout your HVAC system and left untreated, mold can lead to serious health problems as well as do damage to the structure of your home.

Consider using a dehumidifier with your HVAC unit to control the humidity balance inside

Use an exhaust fan in bathrooms and kitchens, clean it every 3 months

Always repair water-damaged areas within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth

Dust Mites and Dog Dander

Pollen, dust and dirt gets tracked into your home on a daily basis. This is a common source of indoor air pollution. In addition, dust mites (those tiny, microscopic insects that live within dust) and animal dander can also be a major irritant. It’s estimated that 10-15 percent of those with allergies are allergic to cat or dog dander (animal skin flakes, which are not the same as the animal’s hair). If your furry friend lives inside, their dander can accumulate inside of your HVAC system. This forces allergens to be released throughout your house, significantly impact the quality of your air.

Vacuum routinely using a HEPA filter (HEPA filters are specifically designed to remove animal allergen-sized particles)

Dust regularly with a damp cloth

Remember to change and/or clean your HVAC air filters once a month

Schedule a furnace tune-up*

Furnace Tune-up Aids in Ventilating the Home

Allergens can build up on furnace motors and fans; once all this dander, dust and debris has accumulated, the air quality (and allergy symptoms) in your home is drastically impacted. If you suspect mold growing near components of your system or you smell musty odors coming from your vents, it is critical to consult with the professionals at Point Bay immediately.

A furnace tune-up and cleaning is not only necessary to improve the effectiveness of your system, prevent repairs and help heat your home, but it also aids in ventilating the home- reducing mold growth and sources of indoor pollution.

Call us at 732-349-5059 to learn more.