Learn how a simple air filter can help fight seasonal symptoms

For many, fall is the best time of the year. The weather is great, there is often more time to spend with friends and family, and nearly every product imaginable is available in a pumpkin spice flavor. However, one issue can make fall slightly unpleasant for some people – fall allergies.

Typical Symptoms of Fall Allergies

According to WebMD, the most common fall allergy symptoms include:

• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Itchy eyes and nose
• Dark circles under the eyes

Common Causes of Fall Allergies

The three most common fall allergens are ragweed, mold, and dust mites. In fact, most people who suffer from spring allergies also suffer in the fall when ragweed pollen peaks. Mold accumulates on wet leaves, especially when they're piled high after raking your yard. And indoor allergens, like dust mites, may accumulate in your ventilation system and get stirred up the first time you turn on your heat for the season.

• Choose the best furnace filter for allergies according to your family's needs. If you or someone in your household suffers from pet allergies, fall allergies, or smoke allergies, you'll want to use an air filter with a minimum MERV rating of 11, which will filter out pollen, mold spores, pet dander, smoke, and dust mites. The higher the filter's rating, the cleaner your home's air will be.
• Change your HVAC filters regularly. During peak allergy seasons, switching out your filter every 30 days may be necessary. Some higher efficiency filters can last longer, but you'll want to check for buildup at least monthly. The more work the filter does, the faster it can clog. Maintaining a healthy home means making sure your filters are clean.
• Shower and change clothes after you spend time outside. Pollen can hitch a ride on your clothing and in your hair while you're enjoying the crisp fall air. You'll want to rid yourself of it as soon as possible when you come inside.
• Track pollen counts for your region using an app or a website. Sites like Pollen.com make it easy to plan your activities around your allergies.
• Get tested by an allergist. They can confirm which allergens are your triggers for fall allergies and recommend the best treatments for your case.

Do you have other concerns about the air you breathe in your home or business? Check out our other helpful tips for more answers.