Allergy sufferers in Ajax, Oshawa, and Pickering probably hate this time of year.
That’s because pesky and uncomfortable allergens fill the air, such as:
- Tree pollen.
- Grass pollen.
- Ragweed.
- Pet dander.
- Dust mites.
While it’s impossible to control the air quality outside of your home, you can improve it drastically with indoor air quality products from Advantage Airtech ClimateCare.
HEPA Filters
What separates a HEPA filter from a conventional air filtration product is in its design and operation.
HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air and must meet the following performance standards:
- Capture 99.97% of airborne particles.
- Trap contaminants the size of 0.3 microns (or 0.000012 of an inch).
Just how small is a micron (μm)? To put that in perspective:
- Dimes are around 1000 microns thick.
- Human hair is around 100 microns thick.
- A grain of sand and is approximately 90 microns wide.
- Anything less than 30 microns cannot be seen by the naked eye.
In short, HEPA filters need to be able to collect incredibly tiny pollutants in order to earn that designation.
That means they’re perfect for anyone allergic to things like (in addition to the items listed above):
- Cigarette smoke.
- Mold.
- Mildew.
Air purification systems
Firstly, it’s important to know the difference between air purification and air filtration:
- Air purification sanitizes the air by releasing elements to nullify (or even kill) contaminants.
- Air filtration collects and traps particles while allowing clean air to pass through.
Some particles – even though they can’t be seen – are still harmful to your health.
Because air purifiers attack harmful pollutants while still airborne, they’re an ideal solution for anyone who suffers from the following (in addition to common allergies):
- Breathing issues such as asthma.
- Hay fever.
- Sensitive skin.
- Watery eyes.
Air purifiers also have air filters built into them. So anything they don’t neutralize in mid-air, they can collect via its filter.
You can also get the best of both worlds: An air purifier with a HEPA filter included.
Humidifiers
Humidifiers inject water vapour into the air in order to make it less dry.
And while they’re mostly associated with winter use, humidifiers can help springtime allergy sufferers find relief from ailments like:
- Sinus inflammation.
- Congestion.
- Throat irritation.
- Extended coughs.
- Itchy eyes.
As spring transitions into summer, air conditioners may dry out the air in your home.
When you begin to feel the air become dry or stale, make certain you have the relative humidity (measured with a hygrometer) between 45% and 50%.
Other things you can do
Just like giving your HVAC system a thorough spring cleaning, there are other proactive and progressive things you can do to boost the air quality inside your home:
- Vacuum floors and carpets regularly.
- Mopping with microfiber mops and cloths.
- Install mats at all entrances (front door, side door, etc.).
- Make your home a smoke-free zone.
- Test for radon.
- Use organic, naturally scented cleaning products.
Need help with your indoor air quality? Contact us
Even with the nice spring and summer weather, there’s a good chance you’ll still spend more time at home than anywhere else.
Therefore, your indoor air quality should be perfect (especially if you have allergies).
If you’re having trouble with the air inside your home – and if you think your current home comfort products aren’t getting the job done, we want to hear from you.
Contact us with your comments or schedule a service visit.