Five Fall Allergy Tips

When you think of allergies, you probably think of springtime – unless you’re an allergy sufferer, in which case you probably know all too well that the air can be just as bad in the fall.

Here are five of the most common allergens you’re likely to encounter in the autumn months here in Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties– along with some strategies for dealing with them.

1. Weeds and leaves – Fall weeds and decaying leaves cause most of autumn’s allergy problems. Pollen from autumn weeds is typically smaller and harder to spot than spring pollen, making It a difficult fall foe.

   Strategies:

   • Minimize your time outdoors on dry, windy days.
   • Delegate outdoor fall cleanup chores that can stir up allergens.
   • Remove and clean clothing that you’ve worn outdoors, including shoes.
   • After spending time outside, rinse pollen from your skin and hair.
   • Don’t hang laundry outside, where airborne pollen can stick to clothing.
2. Pets – Pet dander and allergens that outdoor pets bring into your home can be problematic to allergy sufferers.

   Strategies:

   • Bathe your pets more often in the fall (and spring) to reduce allergen exposure risk.
   • Check and change HVAC filters frequently.
   • If possible, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
3. Dust & dust mites – Dust mites are the number one indoor allergen; the more time you spend indoors, the higher the risk of allergy problems caused by these microscopic pests.

   Strategies:

   • Clean and sweep floors and wipe furniture surfaces regularly
   • Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter
   • If you have an unusual amount of dust buildup in your home and own a forced air HVAC system, you could have a duct leak problem; consider having your ducts checked by a professional
4. Mold – Mold thrives in the fall, since it is nature’s leaf decay specialist. Mold releases millions of spores into the air and onto the ground to accomplish this task – which means it also spends a lot of time on your clothing and shoes.

   Strategies:

   • When possible, remove shoes off when you come in the house.
   • Follow directions listed in “weeds and leaves” above
5. Cockroaches – The population of these pests, which can be potent allergens, tends to spike during the fall.

   Strategy:

   • Exterminate / manage these pests.

The bottom line

Just like in the spring, taking steps to minimize your exposure to fall allergens is the key to reducing allergy suffering. A whole-house air cleaner or germicidal UV light will also dramatically boost your defense against fall allergens if you spend a lot of time indoors.

Don’t suffer with allergens this fall – invest in a quality whole house air cleaner or UV light for your Connecticut home. Contact us today to learn more!