Fighting An Allergy War?

Many people come to the valley of the sun looking for relief from allergies. However, some find when they get here, their allergies are actually worse. Or some who move to the valley who never had problems with allergies suddenly are plagued by them. We may have once been known as a place to come for respiratory relief because we have considerably less trouble with mildew and mold spores in our climate, but the Phoenix area is a high growth, densely populated area with a hotbed of allergens from pollen to pollution.

Have you ever noticed dust particles floating through the air in your home as the sun catches it just right on a lovely afternoon? Could be an idyllic scene like enjoying a light summer rain, but dust is composed of very small, lightweight particles from our own dead skin cells and pet dander to pollen and pollutants entering from outside. Any breeze or movement sends these particles airborne. Not exactly an appealing thought that we’re inhaling all of that floating around us. No wonder so many suffer from allergies. But indoor allergy relief is the one area you can try to control when it comes to allergens.

There are a number of simple things that can be done to reduce household dust and alleviate allergy symptoms:

• Sweeping of floors, including those corners.
• Dusting of flat surfaces and spaces where dust will settle, such as knick-knacks and window treatments.
• Use a high-quality vacuum that actually picks up and traps the dust, rather than moving it around.
• Washing throws, bedding and furniture coverings to keep dust from settling in fabrics.
• Using allergen covers for pillows and mattresses to keep them from absorbing dust. 
• Houseplants can also help improve air quality.

One of the most effective ways to get rid of dust is through your HVAC system’s air filter.  Get in the habit of inspecting the filter monthly and changing it when it begins to clog with dirt and dust. Even when you don’t need heating or cooling, run your forced-air equipment on “fan only” to get air moving through the filter.

You may still have to fight an allergy battle outside, but your sinuses will thank you when you’re in the allergy-reduced area of your home as you follow these simple steps. Contact Wolff Mechanical at (602) 814-0004 for more information on improving the air quality in your home.