April Showers Bring May Allergies!
Taking a stroll outside and stretching tired legs is a welcome reward for making it through the cold of winter. Unfortunately, spring celebrations can be hampered by another spring phenomenon: allergies.
As plants burst forth with foliage and flowers, they spew pollen. This pollen can wreak havoc on those with allergies and asthma. Making the home a haven from allergies should be the goal of every homeowner in the spring. Luckily improving indoor air quality is easy, and it is a great way to get relief from seasonal allergies. Here are some tips to help get everyone started.
What are Air Purifiers and Air Scrubbers?
A well-maintained air conditioner with regularly changed air filters is a great place to start for improving indoor air quality. However, depending on the severity of allergies or poor upkeep of the AC, these steps may not be enough. Devices called air purifiers and air scrubbers can also help improve indoor air quality.Air purifiers and air scrubbers both use blowers and high-quality HEPA filtration to reduce the number of allergens in a home or business. These devices can remove dust and pollen that contribute to allergies and poor lung health. Air scrubbers have the bonus of using ion technology to cause dust to clump together. When dust is clumped together, it makes the particles more prominent and easier to catch on the filter. It further reduces dust in a home by lowering the amount of dust on surfaces.
Air scrubbers and air purifiers can be standalone units or part of units called “whole-home air purifiers” installed in line with existing air conditioning equipment. Both types can greatly help allergy sufferers thrive through the spring.
How Can UV Sanitizers and Dehumidifiers Help?
Air purifiers are great for reducing pollen and dust in a home, but they reach their limits when trying to reduce odors, viruses, and mold spores. That’s where two other devices can help.
- UV Sanitizers: These devices use powerful UV light to obliterate odors, viruses, and mold spores. They are generally installed with existing central air conditioners and work quickly to improve air quality.
- Dehumidifiers: Instead of allowing mold to circulate in the home, why not prevent it from growing altogether. Dehumidifiers reduce moisture in the air, which can contribute to mold growth. By stopping it from growing, the air is safer to breathe.
Schedule Maintenance and Air Filter Replacements 
The simplest and most important thing a homeowner can do to reduce allergy symptoms is schedule annual AC maintenance, select the right air filters for their air conditioner, and regularly do AC filter replacement. The “MERV” rating system can help homeowners select the right filter. Air filters start with MERV ratings of 5.
This is the minimum amount of protection needed to protect AC equipment. The higher the number, the better a filter is at cleaning the air in a home. A MERV 13 filter is a great choice for those suffering from allergies. While higher MERV filters are more expensive, it may be a good strategy to beef up protection in the spring and use cheaper filters during the other seasons.
About Swick Home Services
Swick Home Services has over 40 years of experience serving its neighbors in Marquette, MI, and the Upper Peninsula. They provide a price match guarantee, 24/7 emergency support, and a rewarding membership plan with many benefits. Call them today for air conditioning services in Marquette, MI.
