How to Improve Seasonal Allergies with Better Indoor Air
Many people who battle allergies on a seasonal basis think of their homes as sanctuaries where they can seek respite from their symptoms. Often, this is not actually the case. The Environmental Protection Agency has identified poor indoor air quality as a serious health risk for Americans. The average home has allergens, contaminants and pollutants from both outdoor and indoor sources that can trigger allergies and worsen symptoms. There are, however, steps you can take to change this. Ensure Optimal Ventilation The first step is to ensure that your home has adequate ventilation. Due to advancements in construction, new homes tend to be well-sealed. If the ventilation is inadequate, allergens, contaminants and pollutants can persist in the home at highly concentrated levels. Older homes are at less risk of these elevated levels. However, older homes are more susceptible to pollen and other allergens from outside sources. Have your home ventilation assessed and perhaps even a home energy audit performed. Schedule AC maintenance on a seasonal basis and duct cleaning every several years or so, and ensure that your air filters are changed as needed, which can vary from home to home. Allergen-Proof Your Home Your next goal should be to...
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