Many people deal with allergies everyday. They can range from nuisances to serious respiratory problems. At Majestic AC, we have been focused on indoor air quality in the home and offer many products that can help reduce allergens in the air you breathe.
What contributes to allergens in the air inside your home?
Allergens in the air inside your home can come from a variety of sources. Some of the most common contributors include:
- Dust Mites: These tiny creatures are a common indoor allergen. They thrive in warm, humid environments and feed on dead skin cells.
- Pollen: Pollen grains can be carried indoors on clothing, shoes, and pets. They can also enter through open windows and doors.
- Mold Spores: Mold grows in damp areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. When disturbed, mold releases spores into the air, which can become airborne and inhaled.
- Pet Dander: Tiny flecks of skin shed by pets (dogs, cats, birds, etc.) can become airborne and trigger allergies in susceptible individuals.
- Cockroach Droppings and Saliva: Cockroach droppings and saliva contain proteins that can become airborne and trigger allergic reactions.
- Insect Parts: Tiny particles from insects like cockroaches and dust mites can become airborne and contribute to indoor allergies.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): These are emitted as gases from certain household products like paints, cleaning supplies, and air fresheners. They can irritate respiratory systems.
- Tobacco Smoke: Smoking indoors releases a range of harmful chemicals and particulates that can contribute to indoor air pollution.
- Household Chemicals: Cleaning products, pesticides, and other chemicals can release fumes and particles into the air.
- Indoor Plants: Some plants release pollen and spores, and mold can grow in the soil of potted plants.
- Ventilation: Poor ventilation can lead to a buildup of pollutants and allergens indoors.
- Outdoor Air Pollution: Pollutants from outside, like vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and pollen, can enter your home through open windows and doors.
- Improper Filtration: Inadequate air filtration systems can allow allergens to circulate within your home.
- Construction Materials: Some older homes may have building materials like asbestos or lead-based paint, which can become airborne during renovation or deterioration.
Reducing indoor allergens involves measures like regular cleaning, proper ventilation, using high-quality air filters, and maintaining a healthy indoor humidity level. If allergies are a significant concern, it may be worth consulting with an allergist for specific advice and treatments.
Allergies, Indoor Air Quality and Humidity
Humidity can affect indoor air quality. High humidity can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can release spores that can trigger allergies and asthma. It can also make it difficult for the body to cool down, which can lead to heat-related illnesses. Low humidity can dry out the skin, eyes, and nose, and can also make it difficult for the body to regulate temperature. It can also increase the risk of static electricity, which can be a fire hazard.
The ideal humidity level for indoor air quality is between 30% and 60%. However, the specific humidity level that is best for you may vary depending on your individual health needs.
Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy humidity level in your home:
- Ventilate your home regularly. This can be done by opening windows and doors, or using fans to circulate the air.
- Use a dehumidifier if necessary. A dehumidifier can help to remove excess moisture from the air.
- Avoid using humidifiers. Humidifiers can add moisture to the air, which can lead to mold growth.
- Reduce moisture sources. This includes fixing leaks, drying clothes indoors, and taking out the trash regularly.
- Clean regularly. This includes vacuuming and dusting, and cleaning mold and mildew if it occurs.
If you have allergies or asthma, it is important to be especially mindful of humidity levels in your home. If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor.
What are Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a group of organic chemicals that can easily evaporate into the air at room temperature. “Organic” in this context means that the compounds contain carbon atoms, and they are often derived from living organisms.
VOCs can be emitted by a wide range of products and materials, including:
Paints and Coatings: Solvents in paints, varnishes, and other coatings contain VOCs.
Cleaning Products: Many household cleaners, such as disinfectants, aerosol sprays, and degreasers, contain VOCs.
Air Fresheners and Perfumes: Many air fresheners and perfumes contain VOCs to impart a pleasant scent.
Pesticides: Some insecticides and herbicides contain VOCs as active ingredients.
Construction Materials: Plywood, particleboard, and other engineered wood products can emit VOCs, especially if they’re made with adhesives containing them.
Office Equipment and Supplies: Printers, copiers, and certain office supplies (like markers and adhesives) can emit VOCs.
Furniture and Furnishings: Some upholstery fabrics, carpets, and particleboard furniture can release VOCs.
Automobile Exhaust: While not typically considered indoor sources, poorly ventilated garages can contribute to indoor VOC levels.
Solvents: Various industrial and household solvents, like those used in nail polish remover, paint thinner, and certain glues, contain VOCs.
Exposure to VOCs can lead to short-term and long-term health effects, depending on the type and concentration of the compounds, as well as the duration of exposure. Short-term effects may include eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Long-term exposure to high levels of certain VOCs can lead to more serious health issues.
To reduce VOC levels indoors, it’s recommended to:
Choose Low-VOC or VOC-Free Products: Look for products labeled as low-VOC or VOC-free, especially for paints, cleaning supplies, and other household products.
Ventilation: Use exhaust fans, open windows, and maintain good ventilation in your home to allow fresh air to circulate and help disperse VOCs.
Limit Use of VOC-Containing Products: Use products with VOCs in well-ventilated areas or when outdoor air exchange is maximized.
Follow Usage Instructions: Follow manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and disposal of products containing VOCs.
Store Products Properly: Seal containers tightly and store them in a well-ventilated area.
Use Air Purifiers with VOC Filters: Some air purifiers have filters designed to specifically capture VOCs.
It’s important to be aware of VOC exposure, especially for sensitive individuals and those with respiratory conditions or allergies. If you have specific concerns, consulting with a healthcare professional or environmental expert is recommended.
Majestic AC can help you reduce allergens in your home, schedule a in-home assessment from a Comfort Consultant
We have always considered indoor air quality an important part of your HVAC service. It is an often overlooked aspect of your home comfort. Having proper air ventilation and filtering can help alleviate many health problems especially in regards to allergies. Majestic AC has many products to help with issues that may be contributing to poor indoor air quality. Schedule a consultation with one of our specialists. They will assess your home and let you know your options. No pressure sales or obligation. Just answers so that you can make an informed decision.