Posted on 16 09 2022

How can ventilation help ease Hayfever?

How can ventilation help ease Hayfever? 

While most of us are celebrating the return of spring and looking forward to the summer ahead, hayfever sufferers dread the potential bout of uncomfortable symptoms that come with the season. For them, along with the sunshine and warm temperatures, the flowering period of grasses, trees, and flowers causes their immune system to react as if a virus was attacking them. They suffer from streaming eyes, a runny nose, sneezing and difficulty breathing. 

Hayfever sufferers constantly avoid pollen to control their hayfever or allergic rhinitis. They are usually reluctant to open a window because it may expose them to pollen. But what is sometimes misunderstood is that while the doors and windows in your home are closed, pathogens, including allergens, build up in the indoor airspace. It’s essential for good health to regularly remove the polluted air from your home and replace it with clean air. 

Opening windows or using vents during the pollen season to achieve this air change will not work for those that suffer from a pollen allergy. That’s where good mechanical home ventilation becomes invaluable.  An effective ventilation system can filter out pollen from incoming air preventing it from entering the home. 

Improving airflow to reduce the pollen build-up. 

When pollen and other allergens are left to build up in a home, the occupier will be at risk of having an allergic reaction. Mechanical ventilation systems circulate the air and reduce the concentration of pollen indoors. Contaminated air is extracted outdoors and replaced with cleaner, healthier air outdoors.
This process also removes year-round airborne allergens such as dust particles, household chemicals and smoke, which may also trigger an allergic reaction in some people.  

 

Filtering air before it enters the home

A constant supply of filtered fresh air entering the home can help control the pollutants. Positive pressure ventilation systems (SAYR) use dry, warmer air to flush out existing polluted air from inside the home.  

They have filters (often hospital grade) that are fine enough to catch the pollen that causes hay fever. Even in the height of summer, when air-borne pollen is excessive, and it’s impossible to open a window, hayfever sufferers can still breathe easy surrounded by fresh air.  

However, the SAYR will create a positive airflow which means airflow is always outward. It’s possible to enjoy an open window without worrying about drawing in airborne pollen.  

Preventing Mould that produces Allergens 

 If indoor air does not flow as it should, dampness will build up in areas of the home. This leads to mould growth and the release of mould spores. These airborne spores may cause an allergic reaction if inhaled by an allergy sufferer.  Mechanical ventilation systems keep humidity too low for mould to grow.

It’s worth considering a ventilation system for your home if you are an allergy sufferer or just want healthy airspace for your family. One of our experts can discuss your options. Contact us to arrange this.