Beware of These Top Indoor Allergy Triggers

There’s a popular misconception that allergy sufferers are typically only affected by the air they breathe when they’re outside. However, the truth is that several indoor allergy triggers exist as well. Here are five such triggers you can attempt to alleviate:

• Dust mites: These microscopic creatures are the most common allergy triggers in the home. They live in your bedding and other soft furnishings. If you want to keep them under control, it’s important that you wash your bedding once a week in hot water and encase your mattress, box spring and pillows in allergen-proof cases.
• Mold: Areas of high moisture, such as your bathroom and basement, are prone to mold growth. To fight mold accumulation, be sure to keep these areas dry. Another great tactic is to install a UV light system to eliminate mold spores in your air.
• Pet dander: Our furry friends make great companions, but they also make it difficult for allergy sufferers to breathe if they shed a lot of dander. The best technique to keep dander under control is to bathe your pets regularly, brush them often and replace your carpet with tile, wood, or laminate flooring.
• Pollen: Each time you enter your home, there’s a good chance you’re bringing some pollen in as well, either on your shoes or clothes. To combat this problem, remove your shoes when you first step inside. Also, change your clothes and place them in a plastic bag in your hamper.
• Cigarette smoke: Everyone is aware of the dangers of smoking, but cigarette smoke is especially bothersome for allergy sufferers. Research has even shown that children who are exposed to smoke have an increased risk of developing respiratory problems. We suggest you designate a smoking area outside.

For more expert advice on controlling indoor allergy triggers, or if you have any other questions related to home comfort, please don’t hesitate to contact the friendly professionals at Paschal Heat, Air & Geothermal. We’ve been serving the needs of Northwest Arkansas for more than 45 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Springdale, Arkansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about allergy triggers and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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