Those who have lived in South Florida for any period of time can attest to the high levels of dust commonly found inside of their homes.

There is strong evidence linking house dust to illnesses, as well as a person’s overall health and well-being. The most common particles found in house dust are mold, mildew, fungi, algae, insects, pollen, animal dander and dust mites. All of these items, when breathed in at microscopic levels, can create significant health issues, particularly among those with allergies.

Dust mites are of particular concern and thrive at high humidity levels, living primarily in mattresses, carpets and furniture. They are not visible to the naked eye and do not bite or transmit disease. However, their droppings can emit very potent allergens.

House dust is most problematic during the late summer months and in South Florida, dust is present in just about every home, regardless of how often it is cleaned. However, the age of a home, outdoor and indoor temperatures, as well as humidity levels all play a key role in how high these levels can become.

Here are a few tips that can help manage dust levels inside your South Florida home:

• Frequently change your air filter. Most air filters should be changed at least once per month, unless specified on air filter packaging (some filters are designed to last longer). Changing a filter in a home is a commonly neglected task and not replacing it frequently can cause heavy accumulations of dust and obstruct air flow throughout a home. The result will be an A/C unit that works harder and eventually leads to clogging, condensation flooding and other problems.
• Dust, mop and vacuum. Frequently mopping floors, dusting windows and furniture, as well as vacuuming carpets will go a long way in controlling dust levels inside of a home. Dust accumulation on carpets often goes unseen, so it is important not to neglect those vacuuming chores, even if it appears your carpets are clean.
• Add a high efficiency (HEPA) air purifier to your home. An air purifier in a home can help remove dust allergens and control dust. This item is particularly beneficial to individuals with allergies.
• Add a dehumidifier to your home. As mentioned, dust mites and other allergens thrive in high-humidity environments, which is why it’s important to keep humidity levels in check. A dehumidifier’s job is to suck moisture out of a room and help control dust mites and other allergens in the process.

In addition to the above recommendations, it is also wise to keep a clean kitchen and living area. This includes taking out the trash often and cleaning countertops with Lysol wipes or other related products.

While dust will never be completely eliminated, reducing its levels will have major health benefits and create on overall pleasant environment inside of your home.