Indoor Allergies

Now that winter is here we’re spending more time indoors and indoor allergies can start to become a problem particularly in the coldest part of winter. Closed windows mean that fresh air can’t circulate into your home. Allergens build up in the indoor stale air making your allergy symptoms really act up.

Indoor allergies (“perennial allergic rhinitis” [PAR] or often called “nasal” allergies) occur when allergens that are commonly found indoors are inhaled into the nose and the lungs causing allergic reactions.

With no fresh air circulating, the sources of your allergies are trapped in your home. There are some rather obvious allergy triggers such as dust, but then there are also some less common sources you may not think of like airborne cat or dog dander, dust mites and mold spores.

Your heater can be a source of comfort but it can also be a major source of allergens. Here are some simple steps you can take to maintain your heating system and reduce allergens:

Change your Filter
Be sure to change the filter on the blower for your air conditioner or furnace every month. If it's possible, install a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

Clean Your Heating Ducts
A professional duct cleaning service can remove the dust and allergens from your heating ducts. It’s a simple process but it does require a professional. Regular cleaning of your home’s duct work can significantly improve air quality.

In the next blog we’ll talk about how professional cleaning from Grime Solvers can help reduce allergens in your home.


Sources: www.aaaai.org
http://www.essortment.com