While allergies tend to be more associated with the spring season, common winter allergens also trigger symptoms in persons with certain sensitivities. One reason is clear: During winter, we’re all inside more often and thus more exposed to increased levels of specific allergens that tend to accumulate inside an enclosed home. These irritants can initiate common allergic reactions including sneezing, respiratory reactions such as coughing and wheezing, watery eyes, nasal congestion, and even skin irritation.
Common winter allergens include:
- Pet dander. Microscopic flakes of skin and/or fur.
- Dust mites. Tiny bugs that thrive in carpeting, upholstery, and bedding.
- Mold spores. Released by active mold growth inside the structure, airborne reproductive spores may cause serious reactions in susceptible persons.
Your HVAC system, together with other factors, can help mitigate indoor air-quality issues and alleviate annoying symptoms of common winter allergens. Here are some ways to clear the air inside the house:
- Change the system air filter regularly. The entire air volume inside your house passes through the HVAC’s air filter many times per day. Change the filter at least every other month during the winter season. Choose quality, pleated cotton or polyester air filters with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ranging from 8 to 13.
- Dust surfaces and vacuum carpets regularly. To avoid simply stirring up dust and returning it to the air, vacuum with a HEPA-grade filter and change it regularly.
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water of at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit to kill dust mites.
- Use a humidifier to help alleviate common respiratory irritation caused by dry winter air and gas-fired heating systems. Since dust mites and mold growth are stimulated by indoor humidity, however, maintain indoor levels around 50%.
- Consider restricting pets to certain rooms only, though for sensitive individuals, allergic reactions to indoor pets may be impossible to totally eliminate in winter. Consult a physician about possible allergy shots or a prescription.
For more options to mitigate common winter allergens in your home, contact Paitson Bros., Terre Haute’s choice for indoor comfort and healthy air quality since 1922.
Jeff Paitson is a third generation business owner who continues to run the business with the same values that have been passed down from previous generations since 1922.
Jeff’s belief is that the business belongs to Jesus Christ; therefore 10 percent of the company’s profits go toward the Maryland Community Church.
Jeff is a Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce member and in his spare time, he enjoys 
Ethan Rayburn is a lifelong resident of Terre Haute and a 2005 graduate of Purdue University.
An Eagle Scout, Ethan spent four years as a non-profit executive with the Boy Scouts of America before joining Paitson Bros. as a comfort advisor and later General Manager. In that role, Ethan has brought a renewed enthusiasm for customer care, integrity, value, and service to Paitson Bros. Heating & Air Conditioning.
Ethan enjoys singing and was a member of the Purdue Varsity Glee Club. He also enjoys playing and coaching soccer, spending time with his family and two young boys, and volunteering his time and resources with his church, Terre Haute First Baptist Church, which he has attended from a very young age.
Paitson Bros
1 (812) 232-2347
Serving the Wabash Valley, IN Area Since 1922