Say Yes to Stuffing, Not Stuffy Noses

Holiday traditions never get old. Whether it’s the foods we eat or the people we see, we find comfort in the predictable holiday routine.

Something we don’t find comfort in? Seasonal allergies.

Itchy throats, watery eyes and coughing fits can put a damper on the holiday festivities. In addition to our heating services in Nashville, TN, we offer a number of air quality services such as air duct repairs and cleanings. But there are also plenty of ways you can take matters into your own hands and prevent seasonal allergies. If you’re hosting this year, here’s how you can improve your indoor air quality before guests arrive.

The Quick Six

1. Branch out and consider an artificial Christmas tree. Nothing gets us in the holiday spirit like the pine smell from a Christmas tree. Unfortunately, the mold that grows on these trees can also trigger allergy symptoms. If someone in your family is susceptible to mold, consider switching to an artificial tree. Or, if you’re the type of family that refuses to settle for anything less than a traditional tree, purchase it right before the holidays and remove it soon after. The longer the tree is in your home, the more it will affect your air quality.
   
2. Think twice before using the holiday air fresheners and artificial scents. Before you go nuts with the potpourri, consider the potential side effects. Air fresheners and similar products can easily trigger allergy and asthma symptoms. If you’re determined to have your home smelling like a winter wonderland, make sure you have an air purifier to properly remove the allergens. Or, as another alternative, fill a small saucepan with water, orange peels, cinnamon sticks, cloves and dried fruit to create an all-natural, allergen-free potpourri.
3. Send pets on a holiday leave (or put them in a separate room). Furry friends have a special place in our hearts. But when guests are allergic, they might not have a place at the holiday table. Vacuum your home before guests arrive to reduce the amount of pet dander and keep your pets in a separate room during the festivities.
4. Say no, no, no to indoor smoking. It’s no secret that secondhand smoke is bad for the lungs. Keep the smoke fumes out of your home and kindly ask guests to smoke outside.
5. Give the gift of comfortable humidity levels. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor humidity levels should fall between 30 and 50 percent. Low humidity can cause discomfort, while high humidity creates a breeding ground for dust mites, mold and other allergens. To keep dust mites at bay, wash your bedding in hot water twice a month and change the air filter in your furnace once a month during the winter.The best line of defense against poor humidity levels is a dehumidifier or humidifier, depending on your needs. Contact us to learn more about these products and how we can get your home nice and comfortable.
6. Give season’s greetings and open the windows. You might think that opening the windows is bad for your air. But it can actually do a whole lot of good. Sealing your home from the outdoors is what traps in the allergens and causes discomfort. Open the windows for a bit to circulate the air and reduce the amount of contaminants in your home.

Protect Your Holiday Pad With Frog

There’s plenty you can do to keep your home comfortable this holiday season. But when situations arise and you need a trusted heating and air company in Nashville, TN, we’ll hop to it and provide the quality service you deserve.

To learn more about our air quality services or to schedule service, call Frog Heating, Air & Electrical at (615) 657-4351 or contact us online today.