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Tag Archives: HEPA Filter

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Relief From Springtime Mold Allergies

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Almost everyone looks forward to spring. Except maybe for those who suffer from springtime allergies and especially, mold allergies.

As temperatures heat up, so does the increase in mold. Each morning as the sun sparkles off that dewy lawn, mold forms and spreads.

Next to high pollen levels, increased mold levels can make allergy sufferers downright miserable.

Find out what you can do to fight back against springtime mold.

More Mold in Spring

Because humidity levels rise right along with the temperature, it’s the perfect breeding ground for mold spores and lots of them.

Another problem with mold spores is that they tend to become airborne. When they do, they scatter everywhere including on and inside your home. Mold spores enter your home through doors, open windows, even from your shoes and clothes.

When mold spores settle in your home, they land on surfaces such as window sills and walls. Airborne mold spores can also end up getting sucked into your vents and then are distributed throughout your living spaces via your HVAC system.

Fighting Back Against Springtime Mold Allergies

Anyone who deals with springtime allergies knows just how hard it can be to find relief.

Here are some tips to help reduce the symptoms of mold-related allergies.

  • Check daily outdoor mold spore levels as reported by the National Allergy Bureau. When mold counts are high, plan to spend as much time indoors as possible.
  • Mask up when spending time in the yard. Chores like gardening or mowing the lawn can disturb resting mold spores and send them airborne.
  • Wash clothes and bedding to remove mold spores.
  • Take allergy medication for relief especially when spending more time outdoors.

Reducing Mold in Your Home

  • Clean hard surfaces in the bathroom and kitchen with vinegar to stop the spread of mold.
  • Using a high-efficiency HEPA filter, vacuum up dust, pollen, and mold spores often.
  • Run the AC and change HVAC filters more frequently to trap as many mold spores as possible.
  • Run a dehumidifier to reduce humidity throughout your home, especially in damp spaces like the basement.
  • Fix any leaky pipes or cracks in the foundation where water can get inside.
  • Keep the gutters clean as the wet debris inside is a perfect place for mold to grow.

Conclusion

Springtime mold allergies are nothing to sneeze at. Consider using one or more of our tips to provide some relief for your allergy symptoms.

For professional help to locate and get rid of the mold in and around your home, contact the mold remediation experts at RCS in Santa Rosa.

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Do HEPA Filters Work?

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Dust, pollen, pet dander – these are just a few particles that can contaminate your home’s air. While they might seem harmless, these items can irritate your respiratory system leading to many unpleasant side effects.

HEPA filters are built to eradicate these fragments. But, many are often skeptical about them. Below you’ll find more information about how they work and whether they’re worth using.

What is a HEPA Filter?

A High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter uses various layers to sort through the air and remove particles. Its fibers are tightly sewn together which helps it trap even the smallest of debris.

How Do They Work?

This filter has four layers:

Direct impaction – traps the largest pieces.
Sieving – has small openings to block medium-size debris from sneaking through.
Interception – similar to sieving but instead causes smaller particles to stick to its fibers.
Diffusion – causes minuscule components to travel through its threads before eventually fastening onto them.

Despite the multiple layers, HEPA filters are lightweight and compact. This way, they can easily fit into HVAC systems or in air purifying machines.

How Often Should I Replace Them?

Because HEPA filters do heavy-duty work it’s crucial to change them every three weeks. This will stop the fibers from getting clogged which would otherwise hinder proper airflow and lead to stuffy and contaminated air.

Remember, you want to replace all your HEPA filters at the same time. This will help them work in harmony so you can be sure that your air is clean.

Are They Worth It?

HEPA filters are useful investments if you need to ensure that your home’s air is clean. This is especially so if you suffer from severe allergies. You’ll also notice that the filters can remove odors so your residence’s air will always stay fresh. In some cases, HEPA filters can also trap pathogens.

However, the one downside is that they can harbor mold if not regularly replaced. This is because the filters are built to confine mold spores. If left alone, the spores could come into contact with moisture which will encourage them to spread on the filter.

If you want to make sure your home’s air is fresh and free from common allergens, HEPA filters are worth using. If you’re interested in learning more about them and how they can prevent mold growth, contact RCS in Santa Rosa, CA . We’ll be happy to answer any questions or concerns that you have about them.