Should I Have My Home Assessed For
Allergens?
 If
your family suffers from animal, dust mite or mold allergies, a
household allergen assessment plan could provide a valuable tool
to better health. Many simple and inexpensive steps can be taken
to lessen the effects of allergens in your home. Air samples and
carpet tests can help determine if elevated allergen levels are
affecting your air quality.
Indoor Allergies
Household air quality can have a substantial affect on the health
of your family. Pollen, mold spores and dust mites are several of
the most common irritants found within our living spaces. While
these are found throughout our natural environment, problems can
become exacerbated by the artificial conditions found indoors.
Why are some allergens more prevalent indoors?
Numerous allergens are commonly found inside our homes. Mold accumulates
as a result of increased moisture and humidity, minimal airflow
and large differences between indoor and outdoor temperatures. Dust
mites also require a specific range of temperature and humidity
for survival. Unfortunately, household conditions quite often fall
within these limits. Animal allergies result from our bodies response
to proteins found in the dander, saliva or urine of our pets. People
are rarely allergic to the actual fur of the animal. In the outside
environment wind naturally disperses these allergens to safe levels.
However, indoors these contaminants can reach unhealthy levels.
If your family suffers from animal, dust mite or mold allergies,
a household assessment plan could provide a valuable tool to better
health. Many simple and inexpensive steps can be taken to lessen
the effects of allergens in your home.
What can I do to reduce allergens in my house?
Mold — Moisture is the primary contributing factor
in mold growth within our homes. Without it mold cannot remain active.
Maintaining a relative humidity of less than 50% will drastically
reduce the amount of growth. Increase airflow through proper ventilation,
utilize ceiling fans, periodically open windows, doors, etc. Control
moisture intrusion by using bathroom and kitchen fans regularly.
Replace old single pane windows, especially metal clad type. Dehumidifiers
are also highly effective at removing moisture, but should be used
after the source of moisture intrusion has been treated. Purchase
a humidity / temperature gauge and monitor it regularly.
Dust Mites
Fortunately many of the steps in mold reduction overlap those of
dust mite control. Dust mites also thrive among moist conditions,
with bedding, upholstered furniture and carpeting providing the
most preferred housing for colonies. The following steps can help
reduce your exposure to dust mites. Reduce humidity, following the
suggestions outlined previously.
Encase mattresses and pillows with dust mite proof covers and regularly
wash all bedding in hot (130°) water. Vacuum regularly using
a HEPA type filter. Hardwood floors with washable area rugs are
preferable over wall to wall carpeting. Install a high efficiency
air filter on your furnace.
Pets
Keep pets away from sleeping areas, furniture, carpeting and stuffed
toys. If allergic response is severe, consider finding a new home
for your pet.
Is air duct cleaning effective at reducing allergens?
No conclusive studies have shown a strong correlation between duct
cleaning and a reduction of airborne allergens.
Mold and Sinusitis
Sinusitis, an inflammation of the membrane lining the sinuses affects
millions of Americans each year. Recent studies have suggested that
90% of patients with chronic sinus problems actually had allergic
fungal sinusitis. This condition is aggravated by elevated levels
of mold spores in your environment. This condition can persist despite
usage of antibiotics or allergy medications. Unless patients are
treated with anti-fungals, sinus symptoms may persist. Refer to
your physician for more information.
Air Filters
High quality air filters can effectively reduce dust, smoke particles,
pollen, pet dander and mold spores.Two filtration options are available,
whole house models and portable room cleaners. Families with forced
air heating/cooling systems can choose between a professionally
installed electronic precipitator or a do-it-yourself style filter.
The former are highly effective costing between $500 or more plus
installation fees. Traditional filters typically cost $30-60 per
year and still provide a significant improvement in air quality.Portable
air filters provide an option to homes without forced air heating/cooling
systems. Performance among models varies widely, refer to a product
review magazine for ratings.
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