Summer ought to be a time of relaxation, fun with family and friends, and memorable vacations, but if you suffer from summer allergies, you may not feel much like celebrating. Luckily, there are things you can do to minimize your allergies both at home and on the road.
- Use HEPA filters. HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Arresting, and HEPA filters can be found in automobiles, heating and cooling systems, air purifiers and vacuum cleaners. Wherever you need an air filter, look for a HEPA filter to reduce allergens.
- Pay attention to bedding. Cover all of your pillows with hypoallergenic covers, and wash all bedding at least once a week. It’s wise to take your own pillow with you while you’re traveling as well.
- Use a nasal spray. Routine use of saline or nasal spray will help keep your summer allergies under control while you’re out and about.
- Keep dust to a minimum. Vacuuming, dusting and mopping go a long way toward keeping allergens out of your home. If possible, remove wall-to-wall carpets from your home and opt for washable rugs on hard floors.
- Use a dehumidifier. Humid areas like Long Island tend to breed dust mites and mold. Using a dehumidifier in your home will inhibit their growth and help you to breathe easier.
- Keep pets outside. Pet dander contributes to summer allergies. If you can’t keep your pets outside, at least keep them out of bedrooms.
- Don’t smoke inside. Cigarette smoke is hard on everyone’s lungs, but it’s especially hard on those with allergies and respiratory ailments. Make a household policy that bans smoking in the house.
- Use an indoor air cleaner. Install an indoor air cleaner to reduce airborne allergens in your home.
- Seal cracks in your home’s foundation. Cracks in the foundation lead to dampness and mold growth, which exacerbates asthma and allergies.
For more expert advice on improving your home’s air quality, contact us at T.F. O’Brien Cooling & Heating. We’ve been serving Long Island since 1934, and we look forward to serving you.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.