InFluential_Magazine_March_April_2017

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in the form of volatile organic compounds
(VOCs). For many, especially
for allergy and asthma sufferers with
airways that are typically already inflamed,
exposure to VOCs can cause nasal
passage, lung and throat irritation.
The EPA reports that VOC levels inside
homes are two to five times higher
than levels outdoors. Check product
labels and be aware of the various
scents, chemicals and cleaners you
use. Honeywell True HEPA air purifiers
include activated carbon pre-filters
that help trap odors and VOCs.
2 Wash sheets, pillow covers
and mattress covers weekly in
hot water of at least 130 degrees
Fahrenheit. Frequent laundering in
hot water can reduce the presence
of dust and dust mite waste.
3Vacuum carpets at least weekly
using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA
filter to remove allergens that can
settle deep into the fibers. Vacuuming
can stir up, or aerosolize particles, so
try to have a non-allergy sufferer do
the vacuuming, or wear a disposable
dust mask. Run an air purifier to
supplement weekly vacuuming and
to help capture airborne particles
before they settle on surfaces.
4Three in 10 allergy sufferers
have allergic reactions to dogs and
cats, according to the Asthma &
Allergy Foundation of America
(AAFA). Detectable levels of pet
dander are present in nearly every U.S.
home, even those without pets, as
these allergens can easily be carried
into the home on clothing and shoes.
While this dander can be found in
the home all year long, levels may be
higher in colder months due to closed
windows and less ventilation. If you
do have pets, their fur, dander and
dried saliva can all become airborne
and be inhaled. Limit your pet’s
access to bedrooms, and keep them
off upholstered furniture. Reduce
activities like jumping on a couch or
running around a room, which can stir
up pet allergens and cause them to
become airborne.
5 Common household items including
soaps, detergents, perfumes, cleaning
supplies and building materials
like paint and varnishes can emit gases
6Consider using an air purifier
to further remove allergens from the
air. Honeywell True HEPA Air Purifiers
capture up to 99.97 percent of microscopic
airborne particles that pass
through the filters, including airborne
grass, weed and tree pollens, dust,
smoke, pet fur/dander, mold spores,
and certain bacteria and virus. Honeywell
True HEPA Air Purifiers also help
reduce VOCs and odors with activated
carbon pre-filters. The Honeywell
Bluetooth(R) Smart HEPA Air Purifier
has a VOC sensor that detects when
VOCs are present and can automatically
adjust its operating mode to
quickly capture and reduce VOCs. This
model offers many other features with
its free App, including custom scheduling,
outdoor allergen alerts and a
proximity sensor that make it easier to
improve your indoor air quality.
To learn more about air purifiers, visit
honeywellpluggedin.com. For more
information on allergies and allergens,
visit the Asthma & Allergy Foundation
of America website, aafa.org. (BPT) l
MARCH / APRIL 2017
FLUENTIAL
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