In many cooler parts of the country, pollen and other allergens are mainly a spring concern. However, California’s warm climate means allergens are something homeowners have to deal with year-round. Even as winter approaches, Southern California can still experience higher levels of pollen compared to other regions. While spring might be the peak allergy season, the fall introduces new allergens that can pose problems for those with asthma, allergies, and other respiratory issues. Let’s take a look at how these fall allergens affect indoor air quality and what steps you can take to ensure your HVAC system is ready to help.
Common Fall Allergens in Southern California
Across the country, springtime is known for tree pollen, as trees release large amounts of pollen during their reproduction cycles. But as fall arrives, Californians mainly contend with pollen from grasses and weeds, with Santa Ana winds further spreading allergens and dust across the region. These hot, dry winds often exacerbate allergy issues by kicking up pollen and particles, spreading them into areas far from their source.
The most problematic allergens in the fall include ragweed, pigweed, Russian thistle, and California sagebrush. Additionally, some elm trees in Southern California don’t start pollinating until late summer and can continue releasing pollen into the fall. While grass pollen peaks during summer, the long growing season means it can still be a concern throughout the autumn months.
Ragweed, in particular, poses a significant problem for allergy sufferers. Just one ragweed plant can release over a billion grains of pollen in a season, and these pollen grains are notorious for causing allergic reactions due to their spiny texture, which irritates the eyes, nose, and throat. What’s worse, ragweed pollen is incredibly small and can travel hundreds of miles on the wind, making it nearly impossible to avoid.
How Fall Allergens Affect Indoor Air Quality
Most people think allergens are only an outdoor issue, but they can significantly impact indoor air quality as well. Pollen clings to your clothing, hair, and shoes, and you inevitably bring it inside when you enter your home. Even if you take off your shoes at the door, there’s no way to entirely prevent pollen from entering.
Additionally, older homes often have small gaps and cracks where outdoor air leaks inside and brings allergens along with it. Once pollen enters your home, it settles on surfaces, gets disturbed, and circulates through your HVAC system. This means allergens that enter one room can spread throughout the house when they are blown through the vents.
Why Standard HVAC Air Filters Aren’t Enough
Your HVAC system can either make your allergy symptoms worse or help improve air quality. It all depends on how well the air filter in the system captures small particles like pollen. Standard 1-inch HVAC filters are designed to trap larger particles, like dust and hair, but they typically don’t do an excellent job of filtering out pollen and other microscopic allergens. A MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating of 10 or higher is needed to trap smaller particles like pollen effectively.
However, many residential HVAC systems can’t handle the airflow restriction that comes with higher-rated filters. A MERV 10 filter is usually the highest rating that won’t affect system performance. Going beyond that can reduce airflow and cause the system to work harder and use more energy.
Upgrading Your HVAC System for Better Air Filtration
If you or anyone in your home suffers from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions, a standard 1-inch filter won’t be enough to keep allergens at bay. In this case, investing in a media filter or another whole-home air filtration system is a smart move. Media filters are thicker and more efficient at capturing smaller particles without restricting airflow. These filters work three to four times better than standard filters at removing allergens from your home.
Since your HVAC system continually circulates air throughout the house, a media filter helps ensure that any allergens you track indoors are quickly removed instead of being recirculated. This upgrade alone can significantly reduce the number of allergens in your home and improve overall air quality.
Advanced Filtration Options for Severe Allergies
For those with severe allergies or asthma, you might want to consider even more advanced filtration options, such as a whole-home HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration system. HEPA filters can capture up to 99.97% of airborne particles, including pollen, pet dander, and other allergens.
Another option is a whole-home air purifier, which uses technologies like UV light or ionization to neutralize airborne pollutants. These systems don’t just trap allergens, they actively destroy bacteria, viruses, mold spores, and other harmful contaminants. For homes with people who have compromised immune systems or severe respiratory conditions, these systems offer the best protection.
How to Improve Indoor Air Quality with Simple HVAC Maintenance
Even if you’re not ready to invest in advanced filtration systems, there are still some easy steps you can take to improve indoor air quality and reduce allergens with your current HVAC system.
- 1. Regular Filter Changes: The most straightforward step is to change your air filter regularly. Even a standard filter will do a better job of removing allergens when it’s clean. Check your filter monthly, and replace it every 30 to 90 days, depending on usage.
- 2. Seal Air Leaks: Inspect your home for air leaks around doors, windows, and other areas where outside air might be getting in. Sealing these leaks not only improves energy efficiency but also helps keep outdoor allergens from sneaking inside.
- 3. Duct Cleaning: Over time, allergens and dust can accumulate in your ductwork. Scheduling a professional duct cleaning every few years ensures that your ducts aren’t blowing allergens into your living spaces.
- 4. Use the Fan: Running your HVAC fan on the “on” setting, rather than “auto,” helps keep air circulating and ensures that allergens are continually being filtered out of the air.
Other Solutions for Indoor Air Quality
In addition to upgrading your HVAC system, there are a few other steps you can take to improve indoor air quality and reduce allergens. Here are the most common.
- Use a High-Quality Vacuum: A vacuum with a HEPA filter can trap dust and allergens and prevent them from being stirred up and recirculated into the air.
- Keep Humidity in Check: High humidity levels can encourage mold growth, which can exacerbate allergies. Consider using a dehumidifier to maintain a comfortable indoor humidity level between 30% and 50%.
- Ventilate When Possible: Although it might seem counterintuitive, allowing fresh air into your home on days when pollen counts are low can help dilute indoor air pollutants.
Call in the Pros
Fall allergens can be a big problem for Southern California residents, but your HVAC system can be a powerful tool in combating the issue. Whether you opt for upgraded filters, a media filter, or a whole-home air purifier, taking steps to improve your indoor air quality will help everyone in your household breathe easier. If you need advice or assistance with your HVAC system, Sano Heating & Air Conditioning offers personalized solutions to meet all your indoor air quality needs. Contact us today to learn more about our AC maintenance services and how we can help improve the air in your Anaheim home.
