Mild Winter Weather Equates to Worse Winter Allergies for Many

For the most part, Kansas City has experienced a mild winter so far. Temperatures, in general, have been above average and we’ve seen little snow. While this may be a dream come true for those who like to spend time outdoors, it has deprived allergy sufferers of their winter reprieve from allergy symptoms. Because temperatures haven’t dropped low enough for a long enough period of time, many allergens are still thriving, causing many people to suffer allergy symptoms that are much worse than usual for the winter season.

While you can’t control Mother Nature or the outdoor air quality, there are steps you can take to control your indoor air quality to make this extended allergy season more bearable.

Whole-home filtration systems – These systems are the most efficient way to filter household air. A whole-home filtration system minimizes allergens and irritants in the air by as much as 99 percent. Unlike portable air filtration systems, a whole-home system removes polluted air throughout entire home. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation, EPA, and American Lung Association all recommend air filtration systems to help with managing allergies.

Whole-home dehumidifiers – Excessive humidity can promote the growth of mold, mildew, dust mites, bacteria, and allergens, exacerbating allergy symptoms. A whole-home dehumidifier will remove excess moisture from the air to create and maintain a comfortable humidity level in your home and reduce allergens.

 Germicidal lights – These lights are installed in the ductwork where they emit powerful UV and UVC lights to control and eliminate biological contaminants from the air, including allergens, viruses, bacteria, yeast, and mold. In addition to improving the air quality throughout your home, germicidal lights help reduce odors from the air as well. Germicidal lights continue to work even when your heating and cooling systems aren’t running.

Other things you can do to reduce the allergens in the air in your home is to replace the filter on your furnace regularly and have your duct system cleaned every few years. Dust and other airborne particulates accumulate in your duct system. When you turn on your furnace, that debris is blown through your vents into your home.

The experts at Overland Park Heating and Cooling can work with you to find the best solution to help you keep your allergies under control during the winter and all year long.