As warmer days approach in Ohio, so does the dreaded allergy season. With Ohio’s diverse climate and landscape, we get a mix of pesky irritants that can trigger allergies like hay fever. But fret not! If you’re in the constant battle against these allergens, you’re not alone. Many Ohioans deal with seasonal allergies, too. That’s why today, let Eastland Heating & Cooling share some tips and tricks to help fortify your home and personal space against pollen, dust, and other triggers. Say goodbye to sneezy spring days in Ohio and embrace a sniffle-free season!
Know What Hay Fever Is:
Ever heard of hay fever? It’s also known as allergic rhinitis and can give you symptoms just like a common cold. But here’s the thing: it’s not caused by a virus. Instead, it’s triggered by exposure to allergens indoors or outdoors. Here are the symptoms:
1. Runny and/or stuffy nose
2. Watery eyes
3. Itchy nose, mouth, or/and throat
4. Sneezing
5. Coughing and/or puffy and swollen eyelids
Know About the Ohio Allergen Landscape:
Understanding the culprits is the first step to defending against them. In Ohio, allergy season mostly hits in the spring and fall. That’s when ragweed, trees, and grasses go into a pollen-producing frenzy, filling the air with allergens. Plus, Ohio has a unique geography with its lakes, rivers, and farmlands, which means there’s a mix of factors that can aggravate allergies.
From mold spores in the damp Ohio River Valley to the dust and grime that the wind can scatter across the flat farming country. So, yeah, allergies can be a real pain in Ohio.
Know How to Fight Common Allergens with Home Solutions:
Remember that it’s not just the fields and forests that can trigger your watery eyes and itchy throat. Indoor allergens can be just as potent! Our homes harbor pet dander, dust mites, and mold, contributing to year-round allergies. Even our bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens can collect these irritants. So, here are some simple yet effective household tips to help you cut down on indoor allergy triggers.
1. Dusting: How about creating a weekly dusting schedule? You can use a damp cloth or a microfiber duster that actually gets rid of the dust instead of just pushing it around. Don’t forget to tackle those hard-to-reach spots like ceiling fan blades and shelves.
2. Vacuuming: Make sure to use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter! It’s great for trapping those pesky tiny particles. And don’t forget to vacuum high-traffic areas at least twice a week. Oh, and don’t neglect your upholstered furniture either – give it a good vacuuming, too!
3. Curtains and Drapes: These could become hotspots for dust and dander. It’s also a good idea to wash or vacuum your curtains and drapes every few months and let in some sunlight to freshen up the space.
4. Bedding: It’s important to make sure you regularly wash your curtains, blankets, and bed sheets. It’s a must-do to keep everything fresh and clean!
5. Air Filters: It’s really important to keep your HVAC system clean and efficient to manage indoor air quality (IAQ). Your first line of defense? High-efficiency air filters. Make sure to change them as recommended, usually every 30 to 60 days, especially during times of heavy use.
6. Showers: If your allergies are severe, it’s a good idea to shower immediately after spending a long time outside. Washing away any pollen or particles from your body can help reduce the chances of allergens being brought inside your home and triggering further reactions.
Fun fact: March 19th marks the first day of the spring season in 2024!
Know How to Fight Common Allergens with Professional Solutions:
Modern technology and professional services can actually help you achieve an allergen-free home. With professional services and smart devices, you can enjoy convenience and top-notch air purification. Here are a couple of options to consider:
· Duct Cleaning – Duct cleanings are a great option to tackle allergens by reducing dust and other icky contaminants lurking in your home. They can even help in humid environments! You see when mold spores get released into the air, they spread all around your house, messing with your indoor air quality. A duct cleaning can help get rid of those mold spores and other pesky airborne stuff you don’t want. And guess what? You don’t need to get your ductwork professionally cleaned too often. Just follow the 3-5 year rule of thumb!
· The iWave – The iWave air purifier is an amazing whole-home purification system that works seamlessly with your HVAC system. It uses a state-of-the-art, needle-point bi-polar ionization generator to capture and eliminate allergens, pathogens, and pollutants from the air in your home. Plus, it helps get rid of unpleasant odors, reduces dust buildup, and creates healthier air quality overall. It’s even good for your HVAC system’s lifespan! The best part? It’s a low-maintenance and quiet solution that works alongside your existing HVAC system, ensuring pure air in every room.
· A Whole-home Dehumidifier – Mold loves damp and warm environments. And Ohio’s summers and river valleys can provide just the right climate for it to grow. So, how can you combat this? A dehumidifier not only reduces moisture but also keeps humidity levels low, which can significantly improve air quality. Plus, a whole-home dehumidifier can even help decrease those musty odors! So, if you’re thinking about improving your home’s IAQ, investing in a whole-home dehumidifier that covers the square footage of your most inhabited areas is definitely something to consider.
· A Smart Thermostat – Did you know that having a smart thermostat can actually help improve your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ)? It’s pretty cool! With many smart thermostats, you can monitor humidity levels and get notified if they need attention. Plus, they’ll also remind you when it’s time to change your HVAC air filter. It’s a handy little reminder in the midst of our busy lives!
If you’re interested in adding any of these beneficial components to your home, or if you’d like to schedule a duct cleaning service, just give us a call. We’d be more than happy to assist you on your journey to breathing easier in your own home!
As we finish up our discussion on home allergens, our aim is to equip you with knowledge and practical solutions. Remember, you can create a breathable, allergen-free home by understanding, identifying, and effectively combating these microscopic intruders. It’s all within your reach!
Breathe easier with the help of Eastland Heating & Cooling! Call today at (614) 861-5203, or schedule an appointment now by clicking here!
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