Most people consider their home as a sanctuary where they can get rid of allergies. However, houses, hotels, and offices foster indoor allergens around them. With regular work, allergens, dusts, and air pollutants build up in a room or building. Whether you clean often or thoroughly your space, some air pollutants hold or stick again the next day.
Dusts containing harmful substances can activate some symptoms of different allergies. Some common allergens inside our home and offices include:
- dust mites
- pet danders
- cockroaches
- molds
Indoor allergies can last up to a year unlike seasonal conditions, and some people are much more sensitive than others. People with asthma and allergy, especially young children and the old people, are more vulnerable to unhealthy indoor air quality.
Allergens Enter the Home
The mechanism in which a building attracts allergens can depend on the structure or location, however, there are some similarities among indoor air contaminants. Dust mites are one of the most common allergens commonly found in most homes especially in our beds, carpets, and furniture. Mold can be seen in many households as well, accumulating in damp places such as bathrooms or hollow areas.
As the HVAC system gives off some air passing through the ducts and the ductwork is covered with dust, you will surely have dust spreading throughout the air in your home or office. This will affect your air quality and aggravate allergy symptoms. An unhealthy air quality could also result in your conditions to ramp up, which means you’ll start to stand your allergy symptoms regularly. The other air pollutants can circulate around the ductwork such as pollens, pet danders, molds, mildew, and bacteria that can cause medical conditions.
Pollens are one of the most common allergens and can easily pass through your home from your dress or footwear. Through peak allergy seasons, pollen usually enters your home and contaminates your indoor air through your open door or window. Rodents, cockroaches, pet danders are less common, but still accounted for in many homes.
Allergens Enter Your Ducts
When looking for some ways to eliminate allergens in your home or office, your duct system plays a significant role in this matter. Your duct system functions as the lungs of your home, gasping and expiring air as your HVAC system cools or heats your home or office. As time passes by, dirt and dust can get stuck in your air ducts, getting your indoor air circulation as your HVAC system operates its cycle.
The air filters help in preventing dust and other air pollutants from penetrating into your air ducts. But when you fail to change your filters regularly or purchase cheap, see-through filters, air contaminants can begin to accumulate in your ducts. Dust can also pass through your ducts through holes or breaks in your ductwork. Some leaks can be difficult to check, and most homeowners are unknowing they already have them. When your duct system is installed in the basement which most of us don’t clean very often, your ductwork could be taking in some amount of dust and debris every day.
Does air duct cleaning reduce allergies? Let’s take a look at the steps on how to keep our air duct free from allergens:
Unclogs Debris
Hair, dust, and other debris can tangle within your ductwork, resulting in the HVAC system to circulate these allergens in other parts of the home. Furthermore, when your ducts become clogged with debris, it will be more difficult for the fresh air to pass through. If this happens, you will have more risk of allergy symptoms or asthma attacks. Cleaning the air ducts allows fresh air to pass through smoothly. Schedule a duct cleaning regularly to keep your home free from allergy-causing particles.
Traps Allergens
It is essential to replace your air filters at least every three months. Pet owners should set for a monthly replacement and use efficient air filters that trap pet dander and other allergens effectively. A high-quality air filter not only alleviates your symptoms, but it can also prevent dust and pet dander from infiltrating your ducts, limiting the need to have them cleaned regularly.
Prevents Dust Buildup
Aside from changing your air filters, you also need to vacuum your vents. Use a unit with a HEPA filter or one particularly designed to hold pet dander and eliminate the pet hair from all types of floor. Focus on vacuuming every vent in your home weekly to avoid dust buildup.
Improve Air Quality
Air purifiers are ideal for people who suffer from allergies as they improve the quality of the air in your home or office. Although portable units function fairly well in a room, you should think of investing in a model for the entire home to provide breathable air in every room. Whole-home air purifiers give you better control over your indoor air quality and will provide the whole family healthy air to breathe.
Other Ways You Can Do To Reduce Allergens
Getting a professional air duct cleaning is the most practical way to reduce the presence of common allergens from your home. Below are several ways you can limit your exposure to allergens:
- Vacuum regularly with a high efficiency filter bag.
- Clear clutters to decelerate the buildup of dust in your home.
- Close doors and windows always if you are allergic to air contaminants.
- Store and dispose of food properly to avoid some pests like cockroaches.
- Use your bathroom fan when taking a bath to minimize mold growth.
- Clean vent covers and change air filters to prevent the spread of dust.
- Use a dehumidifier in summer seasons. Humidity increases the risk of your home for mold buildup and dust mites.
Seasons for allergies can be frustrating, but your home doesn’t need to be unbearable. While most homes absorb allergens, you can take the given tips yourself to avoid and eliminate them.
When it comes time to allergy seasons, keep in mind to clean the air you breathe at home. Contact 5 Star Air today for more information on indoor air quality and how to alleviate your allergy symptoms. We will provide you the most effective and practical solution for your home.