Friday, October 3, 2008

Sneezing? Coughing? (What’s in the Air at Your Home?)


Today's homes are built energy efficient to "hold" air inside - avoiding heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. Of course, what's better for your energy bills isn't necessarily better for making your air cleaner inside your home. This type of construction doesn't allow the home to breathe.

Opening a window isn't always the answer. Outdoor air may not be clean either. That's when an electric whole home air cleaner can help, especially if someone in your home suffers from allergies. And especially if it can eliminate the tiniest particles that are the most damaging to your lungs.

Here’s some of the most common sources of air pollution

1. Tobacco smoke
Tobacco smoke is one of the smallest allergens, and for years the EPA has reported the link between second-hand smoke and health effects. (Of course you don’t smoke.)

2. Pollen
Pollen comes from trees, flowers and grass, and even opening a door can allow millions of these particles into a home. Some people are particularly sensitive to the presence of certain pollen particles.

3. Animal dander
People who are allergic to cats and dogs are actually allergic to the dander flakes their pets shed. Dander can remain in a home long after the presence of the host animal.

4. Mold and mildew
Typically you’ll find mold in your shower, kitchen or basement. These wily plant spores can grow most any place in your home that's warm and humid.

At the EPA learn the benefits and drawbacks of different air cleaning systems to get healthier air in your home. Then consider a high-efficiency electronic air cleaner that's easy to install, quiet, doesn't emit harmful ozone and takes less than 10 minutes of maintenance a year.

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