Updated: September 26th, 2022
It’s pretty common to hear people complaining about allergy symptoms in the springtime. But fall allergies are just as real and can cause as much discomfort for those who suffer from them. Ragweed is the biggest culprit this time of year — about 75 percent of people allergic to spring plants also have reactions to ragweed. Mold and dust mites are two more common allergens that can cause your allergy symptoms to flare up during September and October.
Before you stock up on extra tissues, there are steps you can take to protect your home from fall allergens. Try these tips below to keep your allergy symptoms at bay as the seasons change.
1. Keep your windows closed.
We know fall means dropping temperatures and gloriously cool evenings. But before you open that window to let the breeze in, remember what it’s like to endure a day of sniffling and sneezing. The single most effective way to reduce allergens in your home is to keep your windows closed to prevent them from getting in.
Of course, you won’t be sequestered in your house all season, but you will be spending more time indoors so it’s important to keep a clean house. Vacuuming, dusting and washing linens are all good ways to reduce allergens in your home and limit your allergy symptoms
2. Try a dehumidifier for relief.
Dust mites and mold thrive in moist, humid environments. If you are experiencing humidity control issues in your home, a dehumidifier can help you find a good balance and reduce your indoor allergy symptoms during the fall.
3. Change and/or upgrade your furnace air filter.
If you can’t remember the last time you changed your furnace filter, the first thing you should do when you finish reading this post is go change it. We talk a lot about the benefits of changing your furnace filter, but that’s only because a clean filter is imperative to a functioning heating and cooling system.
Have you changed your filter recently and are still struggling with severe allergy symptoms? It might be time to upgrade to a high-efficiency filter. Upgrading to high-efficiency furnace air filters is one of the most affordable ways to improve your indoor air quality. High-efficiency filters collect more dirt, dust, mold and pollen than standard filters if you change them monthly as directed.
4. Invest in indoor air quality solutions.
Feel like you’ve tried everything to deal with your allergies? You might benefit from installing a home air cleaner — a solution that works with your existing heating and cooling system to improve the air quality of your home.
We recommend the Dynamic Air Cleaner, which can remove up to 95 percent of particles like dust, dirt, mold and pollen from the air in your home. The result is much cleaner, purer air and more relief during the peak of allergy season.