As the weather gets warmer in Ohio, it’s not just about enjoying the sunshine. It also means the dreaded allergy season is here. Ohio’s diverse climate and landscape bring a mix of irritants that can trigger hay fever and other allergy-related troubles. If you’re in the constant battle against these pesky allergens, know that you’re not alone! Many Ohioans face the same struggle. That’s why today, let Blue Ash Furnace & Air Conditioning share some tips and tricks to help you protect your home and personal space from the notorious pollen, dust, and other triggers.
Hay Fever:
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, can cause symptoms that are similar to those of a common cold. However, the difference is that these symptoms are not caused by a virus. Instead, they are triggered by an allergic response to indoor or outdoor allergens. 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
Fun fact: The 1st day of spring 2024 is on March 19th.
Ohio’s Allergen Landscape:
Understanding the culprits is the first step to defending yourself against them. In Ohio, allergy season mainly hits in the spring and fall. That’s when ragweed, trees, and grasses release a ton of pollen into the air. So, you can expect a heavy presence of allergens floating around during those times. On top of that, Ohio’s unique geography adds to the mix. With its lakes, rivers, and extensive farmlands, you get a combination of factors that can make allergies worse. From mold spores in the damp Ohio River Valley to the dust and grime that the wind spreads across the flat farming country. It’s a tough one but knowing what you’re up against can help you prepare to combat the spring allergens.
Allergen Home Solutions:
It’s not just the great outdoors that can trigger those watery eyes and itchy throat. Indoor allergens can be just as pesky! Yep, even in the comfort of your own home, you might find pet dander, dust mites, and mold lurking around. So, keep an eye on your bedroom, living room, and kitchen – those can be hot spots for these irritants.
Here are some simple yet effective household tips to help you cut down on indoor allergen triggers. Check them out:
1. Showering: If your allergies are pretty severe, it’s a good idea to take a shower right after being outside for a while. Washing off any pollen or particles from your body as soon as possible will help reduce the chances of bringing allergens into your home and making your allergies worse.
2. Dusting: To keep things tidy, try setting up a weekly dusting routine. Grab a damp cloth or a microfiber duster that actually picks up the dust instead of just moving it around. Don’t forget to reach those tricky spots like ceiling fan blades and shelves.
3. Vacuuming: Make sure you use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap all those pesky tiny particles. Don’t forget to give those high-traffic areas a good vacuum at least twice a week. Oh, and remember to vacuum your upholstered furniture too!
4. Curtains and Drapes: These can be hives for dust and dander. Make sure to wash or vacuum curtains or drapes every few months and try to let in sunlight to clear out dampness.
5. Washing: It’s important to make sure you regularly wash all your bedding, blankets, and bed sheets.
6. Air Filters: Keeping your HVAC system clean and running smoothly is super important for maintaining good indoor air quality (IAQ). Your first line of defense should be to use high-efficiency air filters. Just make sure to change them as recommended, usually every 30 to 60 days, especially during periods of heavy use.
Did you know that 1 in 5 people are affected by hay fever at least once in their lifetime?
Allergen Professional Solutions:
Sometimes, when it comes to allergies, respiratory issues, or living in a heavily polluted area, the usual home remedies just won’t cut it. Sometimes, it’s worth considering professional-grade solutions and services to keep your home a safe haven with excellent indoor air quality. Here are some professional:
· Duct Cleaning – Duct cleanings are a great option to help with allergens. They reduce dust and other contaminants that lurk around your home. A duct cleaning can even make a difference in humid environments. You see when mold spores get released into the air, they spread throughout your home, messing with the air quality. As a result, duct cleanings can kick those mold spores to the curb and prevent them from causing any further trouble. And guess what? You don’t have to get your ductwork cleaned too often. Every 3-5 years is a good rule of thumb!
· The iWave – Have you heard about the iWave air purifier? It’s a 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. It also helps get rid of unpleasant odors, reduces dust buildup, and improves the overall air quality. Plus, it can even extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. The best part is that it’s super easy to maintain and works silently in the background, making sure every room in your home gets pure, clean air.
· A Whole-home Dehumidifier – Mold loves damp and warm environments. And here in Ohio, with our summers and river valleys, it’s like the perfect breeding ground for it. But there’s a solution! A dehumidifier not only gets rid of extra moisture but also does wonders for the air quality by keeping the humidity levels low. Plus, guess what? It can even help with 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-used 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? It’s pretty cool! These thermostats can keep an eye on humidity levels and give you a heads-up if it gets too high or low. Plus, they can also remind you when it’s time to change your HVAC air filter. Such a handy feature to have, especially when life gets busy!
If you’re interested in adding any of these beneficial components to your home or need to schedule a ductwork cleaning service, just give us a call. You have the power to create a healthier indoor environment. Just remember, a breathable, allergen-free home is achievable. It all starts with understanding, identifying, and effectively dealing with these microscopic intruders.
Call Blue Ash Furnace & Air Conditioning today at (513) 216-5664 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here! We’d be more than happy to assist you on your journey to breathing easier in your own home!