Having pets around can liven up your Indianapolis home. However, cats, dogs, and other pets might affect your indoor air quality (IAQ). Knowing more about pets and air quality can help you make sure your home provides a healthy living environment for all family members.
Allergies and Pet Dander
Pets shed what’s known as dander on a regular basis. These microscopic pieces of skin come from a wide range of pets, including dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, and guinea pigs. Pet dander can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals or lead to asthma attacks in those who have this respiratory condition, meaning there is a direct link between pets and air quality. This happens when you inhale pet dander in the air. Reducing the amount of pet dander in your home can help improve your home’s IAQ and prevent health problems.
Tips for Controlling Pet Dander
You can minimize the amount of pet dander in your home (and thus the conflict between pets and air quality) in several ways. Vacuuming upholstered furniture and carpeting on a regular basis, especially with HEPA filters, can eliminate pet dander. If possible, keep floors throughout your home bare instead of adding carpeting, which helps prevent the buildup of pet dander.
You can also lower the amount of pet dander in your home by bathing pets regularly and brushing them outside. This can help cut down on the amount of dander they shed and prevent it from spreading throughout your home. Keeping pets out of your bedrooms can also help improve the air quality in these parts of your home.
Your HVAC system can also play a role when it comes to pets and air quality. Use air filters that are designed to capture pet dander, along with dust and other allergens. Change these filters on a regular basis, since dander builds up on them. Having your ductwork cleaned can also reduce the amount of pet dander in your home.
If you need help improving the IAQ in your Indianapolis home, count on Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. Please contact us to learn more about the IAQ solutions we offer, including air-purifying systems.
