CHARLOTTE, N.C., Nov. 7, 2007 — With the fall weather comes ragweed, mold and a host of other allergens. By simply changing the air filters in their heating/air conditioning units, homeowners can dramatically increase the level of comfort that they experience indoors.
"Even if you keep your windows closed, you’re likely to carry in ragweed pollen on your shoes and clothes, which means allergy or asthma sufferers have no real refuge. Plus, building interiors produce dust and other microparticles such as lint, smoke or mold spores. None of us should be breathing in those substances," said Ray Scardigno, president of Filters Fast (http://www.filtersfast.com), a leading retailer of air filters and a 2007 winner of the Bizrate circle of excellence platinum award – http://www.bizrate.com/boutique/2007circleofexcellence.html
"Some people think they’re suffering from a changing-of-the-seasons cold when in fact they’re having a reaction from one or more allergens," continued Scardigno. "Most of us aren’t even aware of the many different types of microparticles that have the potential to cause respiratory distress."
For many people, pollen causes the release of histamines, which in turn triggers sneezing, runny noses and itchy, watery eyes. Dust and dust mite debris (the creatures’ dead skin and fecal matter) accumulate on furniture, carpets and even stuffed toys. Lint consists of tiny fibers from fabric, papers, plants and other items, and those fibers are easily stirred up into the air and inhaled. Cigarette or fireplace smoke contains tar, soot and ashes that can trigger bronchitis or asthma attacks. Pet dander consists of tiny pieces of skin from cats and dogs that can irritate the respiratory system. Mold is often hidden away in places where people may never think to look, such as wood, ceiling tiles, carpets, wallpaper and heating pipes.
"When mold accumulates in heating pipes and people turn on their furnaces, mold spores are literally sprayed all through the building," said Scardigno. "Replacing air filters before you turn on the heat and also using an air purifier are your best bets for cleaning the air."
Also, in these times of rising energy costs, replacing air filters helps heating bills stay as low as possible. Cleaning or replacing filters at regular intervals (two to three months is usually recommended by filter manufacturers) allows heated air to flow freely so that energy is not wasted.
Filters can be either washable or disposable and are designed to work with specific units. Consumers should choose the highest-efficiency filter that works with their furnace. In addition, they should check that the filter they have selected meets with the American Lung Association’s Health House indoor air quality guidelines.
"Once you take the proper precautions, autumn can be enjoyable even for allergy and asthma sufferers," said Scardigno.
For information on different types of air filters, visit http://www.filtersfast.com/Air-Filters-Purifiers-cat.asp
Contact:
Ray Scardigno
Filters Fast
1201 F Technology Drive
Indian Trail, NC 28079
866-438-3458
fax: 704-821-4436
http://www.filtersfast.com/
