Furnace Filters & Allergies
As polluted as outdoor air might be, indoor air can be filled with even more allergens and contaminants. To reduce indoor allergens, many people focus on their furnace filters. All air that is circulated inside a home passes through the furnace; thus, it is important to ensure that the filter is as clean and efficient as possible. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Significance
-
Allergy sufferers must address many lifestyle and home issues to cut down on their symptoms and increase their quality of life. Addressing indoor air quality is key, because most people spend a high percentage of their time inside. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, "heating vents can blow accumulated dust and debris throughout your home." Quality furnace filters can go a long way toward helping to make indoor air less likely to provoke symptoms.
Types and Features
-
There are many furnace filters from which to choose. Generally, though, the ones that specifically advertise that they are designed for filtering allergens are the ones that are most beneficial for allergy sufferers. The higher quality that filters are and the more allergens that they filter out, the more expensive they usually are. Filters usually advertise how many allergens they remove from the air.
-
Function and Benefits
-
Furnace filters are designed to reduce allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander and mold in the indoor air. As a result, they can help to reduce symptoms like sneezing, stuffy nose, itchy nose and watery eyes that an allergic person can get from coming into contact with these allergens.
Time Frame
-
It is important to change the furnace filter as often as it recommended by the filter manufacturer. Some filters need to be replaced as often as once a month. Filters that are not changed often enough do not clean the air as efficiently, so allergy symptoms can increase as a result. Furnace filters usually need to be replaced more often when the heat or air conditioning is running more often. You can make a note in a prominent place, such as a calendar, to remind you of when the filter needs to be replaced.
Sources
-
Different furnaces require differently sized filters, so it is important to purchase the correct size. You can check the current filter, which is likely marked with the filter size, or check the furnace owner's manual, which should tell what size filter you need. Many brands of filters and are available, and prices vary based on factors like quality. Online retailers, home improvement stores and hardware stores are sources for furnace filters that can help with allergies.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit cat image by Zbigniew Nowak from Fotolia.com
