Spring and summer bring beautiful blooms and warmer weather, but for allergy sufferers, they also mark the return of relentless sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. Pollen can easily make its way indoors, and if you don’t take precautions, your home may not feel like the sanctuary it should be.
Indoor allergens can leave you feeling sick, even when you’re out of reach of pollen. However, there are a few easy ways to address this irritation and achieve respiratory relief. In this blog, we’ll discuss some effective ways to reduce indoor allergens during pollen season so you can breathe easier.
When is Pollen Season?
As the spring months begin, you might notice an increase in respiratory irritation. However, nailing down when pollen season starts can be difficult. Utah’s pollen season stretches between March and November. However, the allergens you encounter will vary based on the time of year. Utah’s trees release pollen between February and May. Utahns will deal with allergens from their grass from May to June. Finally, weeds release their pollen between July and November. However, the pollen season may end sooner or later, depending on the first hard frost.
Common Allergy Symptoms
If you believe you are experiencing allergies because of exposure to indoor allergens, there are a few symptoms you may experience. The most common allergy symptoms include:
- Itchy, runny, or stuffy nose
- Watery eyes
- Frequent sneezing or coughing
- Itchy throat
In many cases, allergy symptoms will go away on their own. However, for those who have asthma, consistent exposure to indoor allergens can exacerbate your symptoms. While these indoor allergies can be frustrating, there are a few great ways to address the allergens and clear up your indoor space.
How to Reduce Indoor Allergens
There are several very easy ways to reduce your exposure to indoor allergens, including the following:
1. Replace Air Filters Every Three Months
Dirty air filters clogged with allergens, dust, and dirt are far less effective at preventing allergies. One of the easiest ways to reduce your exposure to indoor allergens is by remembering to replace your HVAC system’s air filters at least once every three months. However, if you have pets or experience severe allergies, even when allergens aren’t at their peak, you may need to replace your air filters more frequently. You may also consider investing in air filters with a higher MERV rating to better address your allergies.
2. Schedule Professional Duct Cleaning
If you find that, even after thoroughly cleaning your home, you are still dealing with irritation from indoor allergens, it might be a good idea to schedule professional duct cleaning. In some cases, your constant exposure to these allergens is caused by a buildup of old dust, dirt, debris, and allergens in your home’s ducts. By scheduling professional duct cleaning, you can remove this debris and trust that you’re breathing much fresher, allergen-free air.
3. Keep Windows and Doors Closed
While you may love the feel of a cool spring breeze flowing through your home, keeping your windows and doors open may be a major cause of indoor allergens. Even if you have a screen door or window screens, the smallest allergens can sneak into your home. When you close your windows and doors at the end of the day, these allergens remain indoors, increasing symptoms. If you want to avoid these allergens, keeping your doors and windows shut and using fans to cool down your home is best.
4. Invest in an Air Purifier
One way to reduce your exposure to indoor allergens is by investing in an air purifier. You have a few options when trying to find one. In some cases, you may want to invest in a small air purifier for your bedroom, office, or living space. However, if you find that you deal with indoor allergens throughout your entire home, it may be best to speak to a trusted HVAC professional about whether they can install a whole-home purification system. This should help you tackle the allergens more thoroughly.
5. Vacuum Frequently
Vacuuming the carpet and fiber surfaces across your home is a great way to remove allergens that cause a spike in your allergy symptoms. As you walk across the carpet or sit on these surfaces, you may find allergy symptoms spiking. By vacuuming, you can clear these allergens and breathe a little easier. After vacuuming, remember to wipe down your shelves and other surfaces to remove any remaining allergens from your home.
6. Address Mold and Mildew Promptly
If you notice mold and mildew growth across your home, it is essential that you address it as soon as possible. Allowing mold to continue growing across your home increases your risk of exposure to mold spores, one of the most harmful indoor allergens. You should schedule mold remediation to remove mold from your space as soon as you spot the growth. Additionally, you might want to speak to your HVAC professional if you believe there is mold growing in your HVAC system.
How Frequently Should You Schedule Duct Cleaning?
If you believe the indoor allergens are coming from your air ducts, you may consider scheduling professional duct cleaning. Once done, this should help you breathe a little easier in your living space. However, you may also wonder how frequently you should schedule duct cleaning to ensure your home is always fresh. On average, it is best to schedule professional duct cleanings at least once every three to five years. You may need to schedule more frequently if you live in a place with high exposure to allergens or frequent inclement weather.
R&D Heating & Air – Your Expert HVAC Team This Pollen Season
If you need to schedule professional duct cleaning, want to install an air purifier, or need help changing your air filters, turn to our team at R&D Heating & Air. With over 20 years of combined experience, we’re confident that we can help homeowners achieve their most comfortable homes. No matter what service you choose, we’re here to help you make this a smooth process.
If you would like to speak to team members about our duct cleaning, air purifier, or air filter services, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
