Warmer days in Ohio often mark the start of allergy season, causing discomfort for many residents. Ohio’s diverse climate and landscape contribute to a mix of airborne irritants that can trigger hay fever and other allergy-related issues. So, if you’re battling these inconvenient allergens, remember you’re not alone! Many Ohioans face seasonal allergies. Today, let Lancaster Furnace & Air Conditioning share tips to help fortify your home and personal space against pollen, dust, and other triggers.
What Is Hay Fever?
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, presents symptoms similar to the common cold. However, these symptoms are not caused by a virus but rather triggered by an allergic response to indoor or outdoor allergens. The symptoms include:
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
What You Should Know About the Allergen Landscape in Ohio
To defend against allergies, it’s crucial to understand the culprits. In Ohio, allergy season primarily occurs in spring and fall when ragweed, trees, and grasses release high amounts of pollen. These times bring a significant airborne presence of pollens. Additionally, the state’s geography, including lakes, rivers, and farmlands, introduces various environmental factors that can worsen allergies. For instance, mold spores in the damp Ohio River Valley and dust and grime dispersed by the wind in flat farming areas.
Fun Fact: The first day of spring in 2024 falls on March 19th.
Spot and Combat Common Allergens with Home Solutions
Don’t forget that while outdoor allergens like fields and forests are often blamed for watery eyes and itchy throats; indoor allergens can be just as powerful. Pet dander, dust mites, and mold can be found in homes, causing allergies all year round. So, you’ll want to keep a watchful eye out for these irritants in your bedroom, living room, and kitchen.
Here are some straightforward and practical household tips to reduce indoor allergen triggers:
1. Dusting: Create and stick to a weekly dusting schedule using a damp cloth or a microfiber duster that effectively removes dust. Don’t forget to clean hard-to-reach areas like ceiling fan blades and shelves.
2. Vacuuming: To effectively capture tiny particles and maintain cleanliness, use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter. Vacuum high-traffic areas at least twice a week, and remember to vacuum upholstered furniture as well.
3. Curtains and Drapes: These can become breeding grounds for dust and dander. So, make sure that you regularly wash or vacuum curtains or drapes every few months. Also, allowing sunlight in it will help to eliminate dampness.
4. Washing: It is essential to wash all bedding, blankets, and bed sheets regularly.
5. Air Filters: It’s important to keep your HVAC system clean and efficient to ensure good indoor air quality (IAQ). High-efficiency air filters are your first line of defense in terms of high indoor air quality. Remember to change them as recommended, usually every 30 to 60 days, especially during periods of heavy use.
6. Showering: If you have severe allergies, it’s a good idea to take a shower right after spending a long time outside. Washing away any pollen or particles from your body as soon as possible can help reduce the chances of allergens being brought into your home and causing further reactions.
Did you know that hay fever affects 1 in 5 people at least once in their lifetime?
Identify and address common allergens using professional solutions
In some cases, standard home remedies may not suffice, especially for individuals with severe allergies or respiratory problems or those residing in heavily polluted areas. Another thing to keep in mind is that embracing modern technology can help create an allergen-free home. Professional services and smart devices provide convenient and effective air purification. Here are a few notable options:
· Duct Cleaning – Duct cleanings are a great way to reduce allergens like dust and other contaminants in your home. They can also help in humid environments by preventing the circulation of mold spores and other unwanted airborne particles. The good thing is that you don’t have to get your ductwork professionally cleaned too often. A good rule of thumb is every 3-5 years. This helps maintain your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ) and keeps it fresh and clean.
· The iWave – The iWave air purifier is an advanced whole-home purification system that works 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 your home’s air. It also helps remove unpleasant odors, reduce dust buildup, and improve overall air quality. It is a low-maintenance and quiet solution that works seamlessly with your existing HVAC system, ensuring pure air in every room. Overall, it is a great option to consider!
· A Whole-home Dehumidifier – Mold grows in damp, warm environments, which are common in Ohio’s summers and river valleys. Using a dehumidifier can reduce moisture and improve air quality by keeping humidity levels low. It can also help to decrease musty odors. Consider investing in a whole-home dehumidifier that covers the square footage of your home’s most used areas for better indoor air quality (IAQ).
· A Smart Thermostat – Having a smart thermostat can help improve your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ). With the ability to monitor humidity levels, it can alert you if it reaches a level that requires attention. Lastly, a smart thermostat can notify you when it’s time to change your HVAC air filter. It’s a convenient reminder to have in the midst of your busy daily life!
If you want to add any of these beneficial components to your home or schedule a ductwork cleaning service, please call us. We’re here to help you breathe easier in your own home! You have the power to control your indoor environment. Keep in mind that achieving a breathable, allergen-free home is possible by understanding, identifying, and effectively combating these microscopic intruders.
Breathe easy with Lancaster Furnace & Air Conditioning. Call us today at (740) 625-2320, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
