Fight Indoor Allergens with a Little Spring Time Air Duct Cleaning!
As Spring bursts forth with its vibrant greenery and blossoms, so too do the seasonal allergies that plague millions. The beauty of new growth is often accompanied by allergens that cause sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion. Despite our efforts to load up with antihistamines and nasal sprays, the battle against pollen feels like an endless struggle against nature’s relentless onslaught.
Most people consider their home a safe haven, where they can escape the effects of allergies. But the reality is that our homes harbor all sorts of indoor allergens – with many causing year-round suffering. Regardless of how well we clean, pet dander, dust mites, mold, mildew, and more contribute to poor indoor air quality and trigger allergy symptoms for so many people. Asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly, tend to be even more susceptible.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, an allergic reaction happens when your body’s natural defense system — the immune system — releases antibodies as it tries to fight off a substance it thinks is harmful. Those antibodies are responsible for allergy symptoms like swollen, itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; runny noses; and even skin rashes. For some people, a sensitive immune system might mistake harmless things like pet dander or mold as evil invaders. Others who are exposed continuously over long periods of time may even develop chronic issues like asthma.
However, there’s no need to fret. There are a few really simple steps you can take to reduce and remove allergens in your home.
How to Remove Allergens from Your Home
1. Reduce dog and cat dander
Pet dander can be challenging for pet owners, as it adheres to various surfaces and infiltrates air ducts, circulating throughout homes. While eliminating it entirely may seem impossible, consistent cleaning of furniture, carpets, and window coverings proves effective. Steam cleaning can remove dust and dander both on the both surface and deep down. Simply de-cluttering can reduce hiding spots for dander. Regularly bathing your pets can send excess dander down the drain, instead of into your home’s air.
2. Prevent mold and mildew.
Mold and mildew can lurk all around your home. To help combat it, ensure your home has sufficient ventilation, use mold inhibitors in your paints, and clean your bathroom and kitchen with mold-busting products. Also, running your air conditioning and using dehumidifiers and air purifiers will help eliminate mold, bacteria, and viruses that thrive in warm, moist conditions.
3. Get serious about air system filtration.
Change air filters every month to ensure your family is breathing clean, fresh, healthy air. Air filters can trap pollutants such as pet dander, dust mites, and tobacco smoke. They work by forcing air through a fine mesh that traps those harmful particles. While they cost more, use HEPA filters if possible – they’re designed to be even better at catching the tiniest particles of dust, dander, and more.
4. Schedule air duct cleaning.
As time passes, your home’s surfaces and air ducts collect various contaminants, such as pet dander, dust, and mold. These contaminants are pulled into your home’s HVAC system and recirculated an average of five to seven times per day – potentially worsening respiratory conditions and allergies. Just like seasonal outdoor allergens, indoor pollutants can lead to discomfort and health issues. By having your air ducts professionally cleaned this spring, you can significantly enhance your indoor air quality and promote better health for you and your family.
Finding the Right Company to Clean Your Air Ducts
When hiring an air duct cleaner, avoid the ‘blow-and-go’ companies offering tempting low prices. They often do a superficial job, leaving contaminants deep in your system. These contractors may advertise on social media with cheap deals and catchy slogans like “Believe my work, not my words.” But their incomplete cleaning can worsen air quality by stirring up dust and debris, spreading pollutants throughout your home’s air.
At Clean Air Columbia, we take pride in our professional training and extensive experience. As Columbia’s leading air duct cleaning company for over 20 years, we understand the importance of thorough and effective cleaning. Our team is certified by the National Air Duct Cleaning Association (NADCA), ensuring that we follow the highest industry standards. With over 750 five-star reviews on Google, our reputation speaks for itself. We are committed to providing the highest quality service, guaranteeing that your air ducts are cleaned properly, improving your indoor air quality, and ensuring your home remains healthy and safe. Call us today at 573-489-8303 or book online here.
