If you’re like us, you’ve been enjoying the melodies of the songbirds, the blooming flowers, and the longer days that summer has to offer. However, there’s this one tiny hitch we’ve all been noticing, right? The sudden increase in dust around our homes.
Don’t worry; you’re not alone in this battle against dust. Let’s figure out where all this dust is coming from, and how we can keep it out of our homes.
Are Your Filters Doing Enough?
The air filter in your HVAC system is your front-line defense against dust and all those airborne particles. Sometimes, an lower quality filter (while saving you a few pennies at purchase) lets the dust start “playing house” in your home.
Here’s a little tip: Grab a higher MERV rating filter next time; something between an 8 and 13 would be perfect for home use. And remember that regular filter changes (every 1 to 3 months) can be a total game-changer!
Dry Air Amplifying the Dust Issue?
We absolutely cannot live without our air conditioners, particularly during the heat of summer in the Metroplex. However, HVACs can sometimes dry out the air, turning your home into a playground for dust particles.
Here’s a remedy: According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) we should keep our homes at between 30% and 50% humidity during the summer. During the winter, a good rule of thumb is between 15% and 30%. Depending on the season, a humidifier or dehumidifier can certainly make a difference to the severity of your dust problems.
Clothing and Bedding: Safe Haven For Mites
Your comfy bed and favorite tee are notorious for harboring dust mites. These disgusting little creatures feed off dead skin cells. A gross thought, isn’t it?
What we propose: Change your bedding regularly. Wash those sheets and comforters more often. Consider allergen-proof covers to keep those pesky mites away.
Windows: Gateways for Dust
When the weather starts to cool off outside, it’s very tempting to open up those windows for some “fresh air”. What you may not realize is dust and pollen can seize this opportunity to sneak into your home and wreak havoc.
Here’s a thought: Let’s resist the urge to open doors and windows. This will help prevent unwanted particles from barging in. If you have no choice but to open them, then make sure you have screens to catch those larger dust particles. An air purifier could be a great addition to your home to keep the air fresh and clean.
Oh No, Not The Furry Friends!
Our beloved pets, while bringing joy and happiness to your household, can also be contributing to the dust. Animals bring in dust from outside, and deposit it all over your floors and furniture. Their shedding certainly does not help matters, either.
Our advice: Schedule your pet for regular grooming sessions. A dip in the bathtub once a week might also be a fun and effective way to reduce the dust. Of course, it wouldn’t hurt to install a good air purifier that can help ensure both you and your pets enjoy a clean, dust-free environment.
Busy Life Leading to Dusty Corners?
We totally get it; life can be a whirlwind of activities leaving little time for regular cleaning, which unfortunately invites dust to settle in quite comfortably.
How about this? Create a cleaning roster that suits your schedule. Equip yourself with a damp cloth or a microfiber duster, and wage war against those dust particles.
Thinking About Your Carpets and Rugs?
Those beautiful carpets and cozy rugs can sometimes be a haven for dust and allergens. If you’re struggling with accumulating dust, it might just be time to rethink your flooring strategy.
Let’s try this: Maybe swap out older carpets for low-pile alternatives that are super easy to clean. Or, go a step further with hardwood or laminate flooring which are both stylish and dust-resistant.
Ventilation: Is it Good Enough?
A well-ventilated home can effectively keep dust and airborne particles at bay, promising you fresher and cleaner indoor air. If your home is suffering from poor ventilation, you probably are dealing with dust particles that are trapped inside with nowhere to escape.
What to do: Let’s ensure the air in your home can flow freely by cleaning out your vents and ductwork. Installing a good ventilation system could be your ticket to a dust-free home!
Ductwork Bringing in Unwanted Guests?
Speaking of ductwork, cracks and gaps in your air conditioning ducts could be secretly sucking in dirt, dust, and other contaminants from your attic or crawl space. This debris is then blown throughout your home, adding to the dust in your indoor air.
Simple solution: A professional check on your ductwork could seal all those secret leaks and keep the unwanted dust out. This tip can save you in a second way… by eliminating these leaks, you will waste less energy and save money on your electric bill.
Final Thoughts
Keeping a home dust-free seems like a giant task, doesn’t it? But with a little dedication and the right strategies, you can enjoy a fresher, cleaner home this Fall. And as always, your friends here at A/C Rescue are here to lend a hand when you need us. Call us at 972.876.0703.
