For many Ohio residents, the arrival of warmer days also marks the dreaded allergy season. Because it is nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Ohio’s varied climate and landscape bring a mix of airborne irritants that trigger hay fever and other allergy-related issues. If you’re battling these pesky allergens, know you’re not alone! Many Ohioans face the annoyance of seasonal allergies. So, let Reynoldsburg Heating & Cooling share some tips to help you protect your home and personal space from pollen, dust, and other triggers.
What Is Hay Fever?
Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, causes symptoms that feel a lot like a common cold. But instead of a virus, these symptoms are triggered by an allergic reaction to indoor or outdoor allergens. Here’s what you might experience:
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
The Ohio Allergen Landscape:
Understanding the culprits is the first step to building your defense against them. Ohio’s allergy season mainly hits in the spring and fall, thanks to the mass pollination of ragweed, trees, and grasses, leading to a heavy airborne presence of pollens. Plus, the state’s unique geography, including its lakes, rivers, and extensive farmlands, creates a mix of environmental factors that can worsen allergies—from mold spores in the damp Ohio River Valley to the dust and grime that the wind can stir up in flat farming areas.
Spot and Combat Common Allergens with Home Solutions:
Remember, while it’s easy to blame the fields and forests for your watery eyes and itchy throat, indoor allergens are equally troublesome. Your home can be full of pet dander, dust mites, and mold, all contributing to allergies in spring and all year round. Your bedroom, living room, and kitchen can all be hotspots for these irritants.
Did you know that Hay Fever affects 1 in 5 people at least once in their lifetime?
Here are some simple yet effective household tips to cut down on indoor allergen triggers:
Combat Common Allergens with Home Solutions:
- Dusting – Stick to a weekly dusting routine with a damp cloth or microfiber duster that doesn’t just move the dust around. Don’t forget those hard-to-reach spots like ceiling fan blades and shelves.
- Vacuuming – Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to catch tiny particles and vacuum high-traffic areas at least twice a week. Remember to vacuum your upholstered furniture, too.
- Curtains and Drapes – These can collect dust and dander. Make sure to wash or vacuum them every few months and let in some sunlight to clear out dampness.
- Washing: Regularly wash all bedding, blankets, and sheets.
- Air Filters – Keep your HVAC system clean and efficient to manage indoor air quality. High-efficiency air filters are your first line of defense. Change them as recommended, usually every 30 to 90 days during heavy use.
- Showering – If your allergies are bad, it’s a good idea to shower right after spending a lot of time outside. Washing off pollen and particles as soon as you can helps reduce the chances of bringing allergens into your home.
Combat Common Allergens Professional Solutions:
Keep in mind that embracing modern tech can be your ticket to an almost allergen-free home. Professional services and smart devices can make air purification super convenient and effective. Here are a couple worth checking out:
- Duct Cleaning – Getting your ducts cleaned is a great way to tackle allergens by cutting down on dust and other hidden contaminants in your home. It’s especially helpful in humid environments because it can stop mold spores from spreading and messing up your indoor air quality (IAQ). Plus, you don’t need to get it done too often—every 3-5 years is usually enough!
- The iWave – The iWave air purifier is an advanced system that works with your HVAC setup. It uses a high-tech, needle-point bi-polar ionization generator to capture and eliminate allergens, pathogens, and pollutants from your home’s air. It also helps get rid of bad smells, reduces dust buildup, and improves overall air quality. As a bonus, it can even help your HVAC system last longer. The iWave is low-maintenance and silent, working seamlessly with your HVAC to ensure every room has clean air.
- A Whole-Home Dehumidifier – Mold loves damp, warm places, and Ohio’s summers and river valleys can create the perfect conditions for it to grow. A dehumidifier not only reduces moisture but can also significantly improve air quality by keeping humidity levels in check. It can also help cut down on musty odors. Investing in a whole-home dehumidifier that covers your home’s most lived-in areas is a solid move for better IAQ.
- A Smart Thermostat – Did you know a smart thermostat can help improve your home’s IAQ? Many smart thermostats can monitor humidity levels and alert you if they need attention. They can also remind you when it’s time to change your HVAC air filter, which is super handy in our busy lives!
Take control of your indoor air quality with these practical tips. With these tips, you CAN manage your indoor environment. As we wrap up our look at home allergens, we want to give you the knowledge and solutions you need. Remember, a breathable, allergen-free home is achievable. It all starts with understanding, identifying, and tackling these tiny intruders effectively.
Call Reynoldsburg Heating & Cooling today at (614) 879-3789 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
