Dust comes from more places than your usual culprits. You see it on your home’s windowsills, shelves and above all of your doors, but have you thought about what else could be causing some sneezing? Depending on how many pets and family members you have living at home, there could be an enormous amount of hair floating around, causing dust particles to form. With flakes of skin and fibers on upholstery and carpets, your home could be 90 percent covered in dust. To help improve this less than welcome guest, here are Warner Service’s tips on how to breathe easier in your home:
Change your air filter. You should be changing your home’s air filter every month to keep it flowing smoothly, but if you want extra benefits, consider upgrading to a pleated, cotton or polyester air filter to further improve your home’s indoor air quality. These filters may not need to be changed as often, depending on the conditions in your home, but consult the instructions for individual schedules. Speaking of your HVAC system…
Turn the HVAC system on high when vacuuming. Whether you are vacuuming your home’s upstairs or downstairs, you are not only drawing dust into the vacuum, but you are also stirring it up and leaving it airborne. By turning your home’s the HVAC system on high, most of that floating dust and dirt will be drawn into the system’s air filter instead of floating around the rooms in your home.
Get rid of the clutter. Clutter is dust’s best friend because they work hand-in-hand. If you reduce magazines, newspapers and clothing left in piles on the floor or in the closet, you can help reduce dust. You should also minimize your knickknacks and your kids’ toys, putting away and organizing as much as you can. You can even tackle the kitchen dust by keeping the dishes in your cabinets with the doors closed.
Tip: Use a vacuum with a spiral, rotating brush on the bottom to stir up dust. It will suck in the particles easier.
Dust with the proper tools and technique. To clean your home the best, use damp cloths or cloths with an electrostatic charge for dusting. For mopping your hardwood floors, use a damp mop, so that you can trap the dirt and dust while cleaning those surfaces
Install a whole-house air cleaner. If your wallet permits it, consider installing a whole-house air cleaner in your home’s HVAC system to help minimize airborne pollutants. This will decrease airborne allergies and other health problems related to dust, such as asthma.
To reduce dust and other airborne pathogens and particles this fall, taking care of your HVAC system is key. Change your air filters regularly and turn your home’s unit on high when you decide to start vacuuming. Before you begin, make sure you have gotten rid of the clutter and have dusted and mopped with the appropriate tools and techniques. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact Warner Service today.