Columbus HVAC Tip: How to Reduce Indoor Allergens

Indoor allergens range from irritating (pet dander, pollen and dust) to downright dangerous (mold, smoke and dust mites). Long term respiratory or allergic issues that occur when you’re inside your Columbus house are usually a clear sign of an indoor allergen problem – which is usually something you can fix.

Identify the Allergen

Step one is to identify the source of the discomfort. Most allergens are related to something you have in or around your home. For example, if you have a cat or dog, you likely have high levels of pet dander. Additionally, a flower garden outside or lots of plants inside can result in high pollen levels. More dangerously, excess moisture in your basement or attic can result in dust mite and mold growth.

If you are unsure of what allergens are causing your discomfort, there are companies that can test the air in your home for specific allergens. These tests look for all allergens as well as potentially dangerous contaminants like radon and MVOC toxins from mold and mildew.

Getting Rid of Allergens

Once you know for sure what your problem is, it’s time to cut back on the allergens. Mechanical fixes are available in the form of air filters and advanced ventilation systems. You can supplement those solutions by implementing a series of simple upgrades to your insulation to keep the pollutants outside.

The key is to make sure the air flows freely throughout your home, and that your filters remove and ventilate the air properly to keep it from growing too stale and making you sick. You can also cut back on the use of certain chemicals and materials that cause allergies to build up. For example, aerosols, paints and glues produce a number of irritating gases that tend to stick around inside.

Additionally, make sure your pets are cleaned often and that your upholstery and carpet is vacuumed on a daily basis by a HEPA quality vacuum cleaner. This will severely reduce the presence of dust, dust mites, and dander.

By focusing heavily on the reduction of pollutants and allergens like dander, pollen and dust, most of your Columbus indoor air quality problems will be solved. Call Quality Air Heating and Air Conditioning today to learn more!