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How to Cope with Spring Allergies   Spring is in the air! And consequentially, so is pollen. Allergy season is kickstarted by pollenating trees and flowering plants in the spring, prompting scratchy throats, itchy eyes, running noses, and congestion to name some common symptoms. These symptoms can really take the fun out of warmer weather and blooming nature as we shift from winter to spring. Believe it or not, the quality of your indoor air can contribute greatly to your health and the degree of risk you are at in terms of allergy triggers. Knowing the quality of your indoor air, and recognizing ways to keep it in proper condition, can reduce these risks and promote a more symptom-free environment. Find out more about common causes of spring allergies, their impact on your indoor air quality, and how to reduce their risks inside your home. Common Causes of Spring Allergies With the start of spring comes new blooms of trees, flowers, and grasses; their po...

4 Important (But Often Overlooked) Things To Look For When Booking a Vacation Rental   Ready for a change of scenery? If you’re planning to hit the road and will be  choosing a vacation rental such as an Airbnb or VRBO, there are many important factors to consider. Number of bedrooms and property location tend to be the most popular search criteria, but that’s not all you should consider when looking for the right place to stay.   When planning a vacation or any type of getaway using a vacation rental, these four important (but often overlooked) factors will help make your travels safer, healthier, more enjoyable and free from stress. What types of features should you look for? 1. Space and Accessibility The next thing to consider when choosing a vacation rental are home features. What home features are a priority for you for the duration of your stay? Do you want a big kitchen? An outdoor space? Is it a clean modern home with laundry, ...

3 Reasons Why You Should Invest in Your Indoor Air Quality Before Thanksgiving   One of the things that many Americans enjoy about fall is the fresh and crisp, clean air. And as we get closer to Thanksgiving and the Christmas holiday, we start to think of the smells of turkey in the fryer, of gingerbread baking in the oven, and pine-scented candles burning throughout the house. These smells and experiences are par for the course during the holidays. But nothing can kill an excellent scent memory more than low air quality. As air is always moving, air quality is ever-changing. Though we might associate air quality with the outdoors, indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the air quality within structures, buildings, and homes. Low indoor air quality can create health risks for inhabitants and occupants.  This year, more than ever, homeowners should take the time to assess their indoor air quality situation, and doing it before Thanksgiving will be well worth it. ...

How To Get Rid Of Winter Mold?   With cold weather approaching, it is necessary to consider how we can best prevent mold from growing in our homes. Mold is a fungus that often grows in moist environments, and because each type has its own ideal temperature, a variety of molds grow even when it is cold outside. As temperatures drop and moisture levels increase, our homes become ideal places for mold to grow and thrive. We should be prepared for the possible effects of winter mold and do everything we can to prevent the mold from growing. Learn more about why mold grows in the cold, the allergies you may experience because of this, and how to prevent mold growth in the cold. Can mold grow in the cold? Many people assume that mold only grows when it is warm, but this is incorrect. Different types of mold grow during different temperatures, so it is still very possible for mold to grow when it is cold. Even extreme temperatures do not kill molds, but rather de...

The Impact of Wildfire Smoke on Indoor Air Quality   Just when your need for clean air has peaked (amid a global pandemic), let us now consider wildfires in the Western part of our country. If you live in an affected area, not only are you likely being told to limit your time outdoors, but you also should take careful steps to protect the quality of air that you’re breathing inside. Your indoor air may not show visible signs of pollution; however, it does not take long for fumes, smoke, and other airborne debris to enter through your doors, windows, roofing vents, and fireplaces. Learn more about the health effects of wildfires, how to tell if your indoor air is unhealthy, and how to deal with wildfire smoke.  The health effects of wildfire smoke According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “ Smoke is made up of a complex mixture of gases and fine particles produced when wood and other organic materials burn.” Of greatest concern to your health ...