3 Tips for Improved Air Quality This Spring
Spring should be a happy time. It marks new beginnings. That’s why homeowners often resort to spring cleaning to get rid of the old and make room for the new. Flowers are blooming, trees are growing, and pollen is spreading. However, for the millions of people affected by symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, and watery, itchy eyes, spring can also be one of the worst times of the year.
While one cannot cure allergies, enacting some changes around the household can benefit anyone who finds themselves congested from seasonal allergies. Below we will go over some air quality tips and clean air tips to help keep allergies at bay.
Boost Airflow With Your Windows
A home’s air can become stale and overridden with dust and debris, making allergies worse. By opening the windows on breezy days and letting fresh air in, the old air is being shifted outside and replaced by new, clean air.
Be careful: if the pollen is high, this may be counterproductive. Always check the pollen forecast before opening windows just to be sure.
Routinely Swap Your Air Filter
Window air conditioners and HVAC units have the same goal: circulating the air to keep homes cool during the spring and summer seasons and, for HVAC users, keeping the home warm during wintertime. This circulated air passes through the air filters and any debris and dust clinging to it. This causes the filters to become dirty rather quickly, especially if there are pets in the home, which can then cause allergies to flare up.
When helping seasonal allergies, it’s recommended to change the filters once every three months. If they are not properly taken care of, they can become dirty and clogged, resulting in the unit malfunctioning. This can lead to costly repairs down the road and more allergy flareups.
Keep Dust in Check
Dust is an unfortunate part of every home. Sweeping, vacuuming and dusting can often cause the dust that clings to every surface in a household to flow freely through the air, especially if the dust has collected for a long time.
That’s why it’s important to regularly dust. Dust can cling to everything – tables, televisions, electronics, lamps, walls, floors – and can end up stirring up issues for those suffering from allergies. Dusting at least once a month is recommended for reducing allergens and keeping a house looking spotless.
If pets are in the home, it may be good to dust more than once a month as pet dandruff can also cause a rise in allergy symptoms.
About Barker Heating & Cooling
Since 1998, Barker Heating & Cooling has served the Livermore, California, and Tri-Valley areas with their outstanding customer service and professional technicians. When it comes to HVAC maintenance, they are the ones to call.
