Air Conditioning / July 24, 2023

Common Home Allergens in San Diego and How to Get Rid of Them

San Diego is one of the most allergy-prone cities in the United States, due to its unique environment and climate. This blog post will discuss the most common home allergens and offer tips on how to prevent or banish them from your home. Read on to learn more about San Diego’s home allergens, and how to make your home a safe haven from them.

Common Allergens in San Diego

San Diego is known for its mild climate, sunny skies, and beautiful beaches, but it is also home to many common allergens that can cause health problems for residents. Some of the most common allergens include dust mites, mold and mildew, pollen, and pet dander.

If you are dealing with allergens in your home, there are several steps you can take to banish them.

The first step is to identify the allergens that are causing your symptoms. This can be done by visiting an allergist and getting a skin test or blood test to identify your specific allergens. Dust mites, mold and mildew, and pollen are the most common allergens we see in the San Diego area.

Overall, by being aware of the common allergens and taking steps to mitigate them, you can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family. The HVAC specialists at Mauzy can help you find solutions to any allergens that may find their way into your home. Give us a call at 619-333-8868.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are tiny creatures that can wreak havoc on our allergies. They love to hide in carpets, upholstery, and bedding, making it difficult to banish them completely from our homes. However, there are ways to deal with these pesky allergens and prevent them from taking over.

The first step in banishing home allergens is to wash bedding, including pillowcases and sheets, in hot water at least once a week. Dust mites cannot survive in temperatures above 130°F, so this will help kill off any that are lurking in your linens.

Vacuuming regularly is another key prevention tip for dust mites. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, which will trap even the tiniest of allergens. Focus on high-traffic areas like living rooms and bedrooms, but don’t forget to clean under furniture and in corners.

For those with severe allergies, consider using allergen-proof covers for pillows, mattresses, and box springs. These covers are made of tightly woven fabric and prevent dust mites from entering your bedding.

Finally, keeping humidity levels low in your home can help prevent dust mites from thriving. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioning to keep the humidity level below 50 percent.

Contact the HVAC professionals at Mauzy for professional help in keeping your home’s air clean and healthy.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew thrive in damp and humid environments, and in San Diego’s warm climate, this can be a year-round problem. Dealing with these allergens in the home can be especially challenging.

To get rid of mold and mildew, it’s important to first identify the source of the problem. This could be a leaky roof or a plumbing issue. Once the source is fixed, it’s time to start cleaning. It’s essential to wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and a mask when dealing with mold and mildew as they can release spores that can cause allergic reactions.

Using a mixture of bleach and water, spray the affected areas and scrub with a brush. Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with clean water. Remember to keep the area well-ventilated during the process.

Preventing mold and mildew from reoccurring can be achieved by keeping your home well-ventilated and dry. Invest in a dehumidifier and run it in areas where moisture accumulates, like the bathroom and basement. Regularly check and repair any leaks or plumbing issues.

With these steps, you can significantly reduce mold and mildew in your home and create a healthier living environment for yourself and your family.

Pollen and Seasonal Allergies

Even San Diego, with its beautiful weather and pleasant climate, still brings seasonal allergies. Pollen from trees, grasses, and flowers can trigger allergic reactions and make life miserable for those who are sensitive to these.

To minimize pollen exposure, there are several steps homeowners can take. First, keep windows and doors closed during peak pollen times, which are typically in the morning and evening. This will prevent pollen from entering your home and settling on surfaces. Additionally, regularly dusting and vacuuming can help remove any pollen that does make its way indoors.

Investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter is another effective way to reduce pollen levels inside your home. These filters can capture small pollen particles and other airborne allergens, providing relief for allergy sufferers. Contact Mauzy at 619-333-8868 for more information on keeping your home’s air clean.

By following these tips, you can create a home that is more allergy-friendly during pollen season and help alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies.

Keep Your Home’s HVAC System Clean to Combat Indoor Allergens

One important step in banishing indoor allergens from your San Diego home is to ensure that your HVAC system is clean and well-maintained. Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality, so it’s essential to take proper care of it.

Start by getting your home’s ducts inspected by a professional. Over time, dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens can accumulate in the ductwork, circulating through your home every time the HVAC system runs. A thorough cleaning can help remove these allergens and improve the air quality in your home. Contact Mauzy at 619-333-8868 to set up an appointment today.

Mauzy’s HVAC team will also ensure that your system is working efficiently and effectively in filtering out home allergens. They can help you determine if your current filtration system is sufficient or if upgrades are needed to better combat indoor allergens.

Don’t forget to check your AC filters regularly. Dirty or clogged filters can hinder the HVAC system’s ability to filter out allergens, allowing them to circulate throughout your home. Replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer to maintain optimal air quality and reduce the presence of allergens in your home. Taking the time to maintain and clean your HVAC system is a worthwhile investment in your family’s health and well-being. By keeping your home’s air clean and free of allergens, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone, especially those with allergies or respiratory conditions.