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Finding the best solution for allergies starts with determining what allergens trigger
your symptoms. Particles that trigger allergies vary in size from small to very small.
Knowing your primary allergy enables us to find a cost effective filter that helps reduce
your symptoms. Some people are allergic only to large particles, such as pollen, that
can be effectively controlled with a high-efficiency media-type air cleaner. Finer
allergens such as mold and pet dander require the use of a whole-house HEPA air
cleaner such as the Trane CleanEffects.
Many people don't realize that V.O.C.’s can irritate breathing passages and make
allergy sufferers more sensitive to dust & pollen. V.O.C.’s are chemicals released from
building products, furniture, and cleaning supplies in your home. Ventilation is the
primary method of controlling these harmful gases. Simply running the bath fan when
using cleaners can help to reduce the concentration of V.O.C.’s. More complete
solutions include a whole-house Energy Recovery Ventilator, an RGF Guardian Air
Purifier, or an activated charcoal filter.
Yes! Condensate on the inside of your windows in the winter is a sign of too much
moisture in the home. Several factors could be inefficient windows, extremely cold
outdoor temperatures, and excessive indoor humidity sources (cooking, showering
without a bath fan, humidifier adjusted too high). Wet windows can be a major source
of mold, and water can also damage wooden sashes.
The optimal humidity level varies with the outdoor temperature and the quality of your
windows. Again, our main concern is to avoid condensate on your windows. A good
setting for your humidifier is about 35% relative humidity, but as high as 45% is good
if your windows stay dry. The average home without a humidifier in this part of the
country is about 12-18% in the winter.
A dry home results in more dry, flaky skin which provides more food for dust mites. On
the other hand, high humidity supports more mold growth. The recommend indoor
humidity level is between 35% and 55%.
