Should You Get An Air Filter System?

If you are building a house and are considering the option of putting in an air filtration system because you have allergies, etc. there is more to consider besides which air filtration system to use. Air filtration systems are great for anyone that is plagued by allergies, or asthma, or for those that want the cleanest, freshest air possible. The question you need to ask yourself is do you Need an air filtration system?

Air filters, allergies, and asthma

Need is a tricky question...but if you sniffle and sneeze and wheeze your way through the year, need is probably a good choice of words for you. If you are plagued, not just bothered, by allergies and or asthma, you should consider purchasing a home air filtration system. However, most experts agree that there is more to easing your symptoms than buying an air filtration system. If you don't make other changes in your environment as well, then cleaner air from an air filtration system won't make much of a difference.

What can you do besides buying an air filtration system?


Minimize Exposure to Allergens such as pets, pollen, and dust

You do not have to live in a bubble, but there are some great ways that you can minimize your exposure to allergens, and other things that cause discomfort. Minimizing your exposure to other allergens in the home is the first line of attack in reducing allergic and asthmatic reactions, and can sometimes be enough, and make an air filtration system a luxury rather than a necessity.

So, how can you minimize your exposure, and therefore maximize your air filtration system benefits? Start by avoiding carpeting and use smooth flooring instead. If you are building a house this is an easy thing to do, and will not cause the necessity of ripping out. Next, realize that if you have pets, you should probably consider finding them a new home. (Ok, so this may not be a realistic option, but what about keeping them outside, or designating space in a garage, etc. for them? At the very least, keep them out of the bedroom, and certainly off the bed, and off as much of the other furniture in the house as possible.) Also, get an efficient AC as you will want to use your air conditioning in the warmer months to get rid of outdoor pollens or allergens. You can also do simple things that are inexpensive such as clean all air filters, air conditioner filters, and duct filters at each change of season, keep your windows closed (at home and in the car) and avoid spending time outdoors when your allergies are acting up, do not allow indoor smoking, wash your laundry in hot water to get ride of dust mites, and choose furniture that does not gather or collect dust. These things will help make your purchase of an air filtration system much more valuable.

Get an Air Filter

An air filtration system is a great thing to have, and can add to the value of your home, but if you do not do the above, it may not give you the relief you seek. However, both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the American Lung Association recommend air filtration for people with allergies and asthma, but not as a solution by itself. Controlling allergy-causing pollution and ventilation are the most important. A clean, well ventilated home provides the most relief. Once you have minimized your exposure, getting a good, reliable air filtration system is a great thing to do.

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