You pride yourself on keeping a tidy home, but try as you might, you just can’t get that pesky dust under control. It seems like a layer of dust appears on your furnishings the minute you’ve finished dusting. Not only is it unsightly, excess dust can make life for allergy and asthma sufferers downright unbearable.
What gives? A few factors can be contributing to your dust problem. Here’s how to combat them.
Cheap or Clogged HVAC Filters
HVAC air filters are your first line of defense against dust and allergens. But not all filters are created equal. In fact, some do little to stop dust and other particles from reentering your home through vents. Look for a filter with a high minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV), somewhere between five and eight. Yet no matter how good the filter is, it won’t be as effective against dust if it’s clogged with gunk. Replace your filter every four to eight weeks, depending on the season.
Leaky Ducts
If you notice an increase in dust while running the furnace or central air conditioning system, leaky ducts could be to blame. Contact an HVAC company to inspect your duct work and have them run a pressure test to determine if a repair is necessary.
Drafty Windows and Doors
Gaps around windows and doors can allow pollen and dust to enter your home, especially on a windy day. What’s more, they’re a leading cause of energy loss. Caulk cracks and gaps around doors and windows and replace worn weatherstripping to keep dust, dirt, and allergens out while keeping conditioned air in.
Carpeting and Area Rugs
Sure, it’s nice and soft under foot, but a carpet or area rug can contribute to the amount of dust present in a home. Not only does dust settle into carpet fibers, but so does pet dander and dirt from shoe bottoms. Remove your shoes at the door (ask your guests to do the same) and vacuum at least every other day with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter. If you or a member of your household suffers from allergies or asthma, consider swapping out carpeting for tile, laminate, or hard wood.
Dusting Technique
No matter how often you dust, if you’re not using the proper technique you could be simply moving dust from one spot to another. Get rid of the feather duster and use a clean, slightly damp cloth or a duster made from microfiber. Dust the highest-up surfaces first, work your way down, and don’t forget vertical surfaces like the sides of dressers and TV stands. Even walls should be dusted occasionally.
Looking for a more widespread solution? Optimum Air has just the thing – a whole-house air filtration system. Installed inside air ducts, these systems trap 99% and more of airborne dust, dirt, and numerous other pollutants. In the end, you’ll have improved air quality, far less dust, and lower utility costs. Contact us for more information and a free system quote today.