Summer is finally here, and with summer often comes seasonal allergies, high pollen counts, and a variety of other air quality issues you’ll have to face in your home. Even if you don’t necessarily notice poor air quality right away in your home, your kids or your guests with asthma or allergies might. Take these steps to keep allergens out of your home this summer so you and your family can breathe easy.
Update Your A/C
If it’s been a while since you last cleaned or replaced your home’s A/C unit, it could be harming the air quality in your home. Clean out your filter every few months to avoid dust and allergen build up, and if your unit is older, consider a replacement. Air conditioners today use about 50% less energy than they did in 1990, so you’ll be saving energy too.
Check On Insulation
Not all insulation materials are created equal, and some may be more prone to contaminating your home’s air than others. Check what materials you’re currently using, and consider alternatives that also could improve your home’s insulation. For example, the R-value for a typical insulating concrete form is about 20, making it a great option for colder environments especially.
Call In Pest Control
Believe it or not, unwanted pests could actually be causing even more problems for you and your family than you think. Certain pests can contribute to air quality issues, particularly if you or a family member is allergic. Up to 60% of asthmatic people who live in cities are allergic to cockroaches, so if you notice signs of unwanted insects, you’ll want to give pest control a call ASAP.
Going Green
Bringing plants into your home isn’t just great for decoration; they can actively help improve the air quality in your home as well. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and give off oxygen, helping to keep the air in your home fresh. Besides, these small additions can add a bit of life into your home’s decor and brighten up just about any room.
Clean Out Chemicals
While you might expect cleaning solutions to be allergen-free, not all of them necessarily are. Many common household cleaners contain chemicals that can irritate lungs and aggravate allergies, particularly if you’re using them in a space that isn’t well ventilated. Check the ingredients lists and labels on your household cleaners, and whenever possible, opt for natural ingredients and fragrance-free solutions.
Don’t Forget Fabrics
Heavy curtains and ornate rugs might look nice in your room, but these can secretly be allergen traps that are worsening the air quality in your home. Dust, dirt, and other particles can more easily cling to fabric, so be sure to shake out or wash your fabric items frequently. It’s also worth investing in a good hand vacuum to help you get rid of dust in places your normal vacuum can’t reach.
With how much time you and your family will be spending outside this season, you’re likely to be letting a variety of allergens into your home on a regular basis. More than 50 million Americans experience various types of allergies each year. Use these tips to make sure you’re keeping your home’s air quality healthy and safe.