There are many efficient ways you can protect yourself from allergies in your home, and better yet, without having to remodel or spend too much. In fact, some of these projects are as simple as setting up indoor plants or a dehumidifier – easy, affordable and most importantly, they work.
But people have wildly different reactions to allergies. While someone in your home can lift carpets and broom freely with the occasional nose itch, others in the same conditions can become so debilitated they cannot breathe properly.
In short, while all of the projects listed below will help with reducing allergic reactions in your home, you don’t need to apply all of them if all you’re looking for is cleaner air. They all focus on having healthier and cleaner air, and that’s always a good thing!
But if you’re someone with more concerning allergic reasons to dust, mold and pollen, all of these will greatly improve your home living.
1. Replace your HVAC filters regularly
You’d be surprised how often people leave unreplaced filters running for months, which not only compromises the overall performance of HVAC systems, but greatly compromises air quality.
It’s understandable though – HVAC filters should be replaced every few months or so, making it easy to forget about them. Use the list below and mark and set an event or reminder on your phone to make sure you never forget when it’s the optimal time to replace them:
- 1-inch filters should be changed every month
- 2-inch filters should be changed every 2 months
- 4 to 5-inch filters should be changed every 6 months (they can last longer than that, but 6 months is a good time to replace)
Regardless of your filter type, it’s a good idea to check on your HVAC system regularly and with a professional whenever possible, at least every three months. Dirty or blocked vents, bad filters, a troublesome unit, all of these can compromise the effectiveness of your system. Luckily, you can check the basics of your HVAC system before calling a pro.
And if really necessary, you can invest in a whole-house filtration system. That’s a larger investment than most projects, but if it’s something you need to live comfortably, the difference is dramatic.
2. Invest in a smarter thermostat
The main use for a thermostat is controlling the temperature of your HVAC system, which is simple enough. So most thermostats can afford to be very minimal and display nothing but a big number without any more information.
But a smart thermostat is much more than that. It can show you data regarding your indoor air quality (IAQ) and humidity, which for someone dealing with allergies, is crucial information to have at your leisure.
3. Get some indoor plants
Decorating your home with indoor plants goes a long way in making sure your air quality is improved, which in turn, helps prevent allergic reactions.
Of course, only some plants will benefit you if you’re allergic to pollen, but there are many options that are basically low-maintenance beautiful decoration that just so happens to keep your air naturally cleaner. What’s not to love?
Here, have a list of houseplants that will improve your air quality!
4. Use a dehumidifier
It’s worth noting here, you can install a whole-house dehumidifier to work with your HVAC if that’s something you feel the need for, or you can just try out a simpler unit first.
Get a small solo dehumidifier that can be turned on in every room or simply moved from room to room. That alone is already of great help and it’s not such a hefty investment.
A dehumidifier helps reduce humidity, which in turn prevents mold and spores from growing and spreading in your home.
5. Ventilate your bathroom
The bathroom is an optimal place for mold and mildew to grow due to its humidity. Ventilate your bathroom as much as possible by opening the windows and doors whenever possible, and bring a dehumidifier regularly. Mold can grow inside the walls, nooks and crannies, under and behind furniture, etc, so it’s good to stay alert.
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- More from homeyou:
- 5 Simple Things to Check Before Calling an HVAC Contractor
- Top Houseplants to Improve Your Home’s Air Quality
- Here’s What You Can (And Can’t!) Grow If You Have Allergies
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