Control the Humidity and Minimize Allergens at Home

Control the Humidity and Minimize Allergens at Home

High humidity and temperature can increase concentrations of some indoor pollutants. So, to reduce indoor allergens, it’s important to maintain a moderate indoor temperature, plus a relative humidity from 30 percent to 50 percent, to contain the growth of some biological contaminants, including bacteria, molds, mildew, pollen, viruses, animal dander, cat saliva, dust mites and cockroaches.

 Children, the elderly, people with breathing problems, allergies and lung diseases are especially susceptible to disease-causing biological agents from indoor air. Biological contaminants can trig­ger allergic reactions and some types of asthma. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, dizziness, fatigue, fever and short­ness of breath.

 Here are some tips to minimize the contaminants in your home:

• Install and use exhaust fans vented to the outside in kitchens and bathrooms and vent clothes dryers to the outside.

• Ventilate attics and crawl spaces to prevent moisture from building up.

• Keep your house clean to reduce dust mites, pollens, animal dander and other allergy-causing agents.

• Take steps to minimize mold and mildew in basements.