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If you’ve been feeling under the weather lately, there’s a chance that your home environment could be making you feel worse. Indoor air pollutants can cause hay fever symptoms, respiratory problems, and other health issues. You can improve the indoor air quality in your home by removing the source of pollutants and by filtering the air. Read on to learn more about common indoor contaminants and what an air purifier can do about them.

Contaminants an Air Purifier Can Eliminate

1. Pollen

Flowers, grass, trees, and weeds all release pollen. These pollen grains contain proteins, which trigger an allergic reaction in many people. Pollen allergies can manifest with hay fever symptoms, such as an itchy, runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. Pollen can also cause asthma-like symptoms. Pollen grains are typically between 10 and 40 microns in size – many of which fall between 20 and 35 microns. A HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter is one which must meet standards to remove 99% of particles that are 2 microns or larger. Therefore, an air purifier with this type of air filter is effective on pollen.

2. Pet Dander

air-purifierPet dander is comprised of the skin flakes that pets shed along with their hair. If a person has a dander allergy, they’re allergic to the proteins secreted by the pet’s skin glands. If you find yourself sneezing, coughing, or dealing with itchy eyes after playing with a dog or cat, you may be allergic to dander. Cat dander is a big issue because the dander particles are so small. About three-quarters of cat dander particles are 5-10 microns in size, and the rest are 2.5 microns or smaller. A “true HEPA” filter meets the standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy and is capable of removing 99.97% of tiny (0.3 microns in size or larger) airborne particles, making it a good option for dander.

3. Dust Mites

Dust mites are an extremely common allergen found in homes all over the country. They usually thrive in bedding, carpets, and other fabrics. It's the waste product of dust mites which cause allergies. The fecal matter of dust mites measures 10-40 microns in size, so a HEPA filter is typically effective on dust mites.

4. Mold

Airborne mold spores land on damp surfaces and begin to rapidly reproduce. These mold spores typically range from 2-100 microns in size, but some can be smaller. Mold particles can easily pass through your sinuses and become lodged in your lungs, leading to irritation and health problems. It's best to try to remove the source of mold from your home and use an air purifier to combat the issue. 

 

 

Since 2003, Rochester Heating & Cooling in Spencerport, NY, has provided HVAC services throughout Monroe County. Their services include air purifier sales, duct cleaning, air condition service, and furnace repair. Call (585) 458-3700 or visit their website to find out how they can meet all your heating and cooling needs.

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