There’s no question that allergies are at an all-time high, with both tree and grass pollen as the top contenders. From Charleston’s coastal winds to lawns being mowed and leaf blowers running every day, you might find yourself avoiding May’s nice weather to hide indoors.
Allergy medicine is one thing, but how can you get to the root of the problem and reduce allergens inside your home?
It starts with the air filter.
You may have heard that you can keep windows shut and wash your clothes, and you have definitely been reminded to replace your air filter. But how often is changing the filter enough? But how often should you change your air filter and is that enough? Well, it may be needed more frequently than the packaging says.
Also, allergens and dust sometimes slip past a dirty filter and collect in the air ducts out of sight. The next thing you know, it’s blowing into your home and wreaking havoc on your sinuses. A clean filter is better at trapping dust particles. Enough said. Sure, you can invest in higher-rated filters, but you should always ask an HVAC technician what’s best to avoid restricting proper airflow through the air system. Let your system breathe and change the filter monthly or more.
Try using a vacuum with a HEPA filter before using one in your home’s air return. If you can collect the dust and particles before they even reach your air system, then you’ll find much cleaner air overall.
High humidity leads to severe allergies. Get a hygrometer or an indoor thermometer that also measures humidity levels. Anything over 60% will allow for mold to grow at rapid rates and makes allergies devastating. If running the air is not enough to control the humidity, or you find yourself freezing, try a dehumidifier to balance the moisture in the air.
Ask us what else you can do to breathe more happily in your home!
