The fall season is here. Summer blooms have come to pass and made way for autumn shades, cool evenings, and more time spent indoors. Although fall is a favorite time of year for most people with its vibrantly colored foliage, milder temperatures, and delicious comfort foods, many live in fear of the itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose this season brings them. That means the "fight against fall allergies" that afflicts numerous individuals is in full force.
In addition to the beautiful elements that many look forward to, the autumn weather also welcomes in a new season of allergies for others that can be particularly bothersome. Some allergy sufferers will find relief from summer allergies as fall rolls in, while others may be preparing to take their turn. Those that are the least fortunate may have to battle with various forms of allergens throughout the changing seasons.
Ragweed - Ragweed continues to pollinate and cause misery to its victims in the form of hay fever or allergic rhinitis right up until the first hard freeze. Ragweed is one of the most abundant and widespread types of pollen, with each plant being capable of producing up to 1 billion grains of pollen each season. There are many other types of weeds that generate pollen, such as sagebrush and goldenrod, that vary depending on the different regions of the country.
Mold - When mold levels are high, mold allergies can be especially troublesome and cause allergic responses for those who are not normally bothered by mold. Mold levels increase with warmer weather and greater levels of moisture. Wet surfaces such as tree bark, brick walkways, and leaf piles provide an ideal breeding ground for mold.
Indoor Allergens - Most have a habit of spending more time indoors during the fall season. If you're lucky enough to have a home that is a biotechnology clean-room, then you should have no issues. But on average, no matter how hard a person tries to create a contaminant-free environment, you will still be exposed to some degree to the most common indoor allergies - dust and pet dander.
Knowledge is power. Those with allergies or sensitivities to these allergens are accustomed to practices that minimize exposure and help defend against the effects of these airborne irritants. If allergies are a new concern for you, there is an overwhelming amount of tips and advice online, but there are a few basic points to become familiar with.
Check the pollen count - Pollen count fluctuates daily, even multiple times during each day. Pollen can have a significant impact on those who are allergic. Those allergic to pollen often look to numerous online resources and apps that are available to plan their outdoor activities around the anticipated pollen count. Find one that you like and remember to use it when planning YOUR outdoor schedule.
Minimize mold - When the conditions are right, mold can grow anywhere indoors or outdoors. Mold only has two basic requirements to grow - moisture and food. Moisture can be in the form of humidity, condensation, standing water, or water leaks. Mold's food comes in the form of a surface where the mold can grow on. Ideal surfaces for mold growth are natural or organic in nature such as leaves, paper, wood, and clothing.
Do away with dust - Dust is nearly impossible to get rid of completely as it must be controlled at the source. Despite strong efforts to remove it, dust is extremely difficult to remove as there are numerous sources of dust and its constantly reintroduced into the environment.
Hold back the humidity - The air tends to be more dry in some areas during this time of year, but some regions have a higher level of humidity. Mold and dust mites thrive in more humid environments. Dehumidifiers are very helpful in removing moisture from the air, making it the least ideal conditions for the dust mites and mold to multiply. If you already use a dehumidifier at home or at work, remember to change the humidifier pad regularly.
Improve your IAQ - IAQ refers to Indoor Air Quality. One of the most important things you can do to assist with keeping your air clean is regularly change your air filters (including your air conditioning, furnace and whole house air filter). Your air filter provides an added level of defense against dust. It not only protects your HVAC system components and keep your unit clean, but it also removes dust and allergens from your air.
No matter which type of HVAC system your home has, every unit needs a quality air filter that fits properly in order to maximize your indoor air quality, reduce fall allergy triggers and keep your unit running efficiently. US Home Filter can provide you with the best and most efficient HVAC filter available! Changing the filter in your furnace is as important as changing the oil in your car and US Home Filter offers filters to fit all heating and air conditioning units. From standard to custom air filters, to whole-house filters, grille filters and humidifier filters, we have all of your filter needs covered!
Selecting the filters that are just right for your home can be difficult and confusing at times. At US Home Filter we understand this, which is why we offer an experienced staff to help answer any questions you may have. For personal assistance with your air filter needs, please contact us now online or call us at (855) 237-1673 and we will do our very best to assist you in selecting the right filter for your individual needs. We want to earn your business and we guarantee your satisfaction! Take advantage of our quality products, vast selection, low prices, and enjoy FREE SHIPPING on every air filter order within the Contiguous USA.
