Are You Still Suffering with Allergies in Florida? Here’s Why.

According to Florida Today, you’re not imagining it, this year’s allergy season is definitely worse. The pollen is higher according to two experts on the subject of pollen:

“Pollen rates fluctuate in response to environmental triggers such as temperature and humidity. In warmer years, trees will produce more pollen.”

And when it comes to allergies, there’s no doubt about it—we are in high season, especially here in Florida. The months filled with itchy eyes, tingling throats, and endless sniffling can feel like an uphill battle. And for many people living in Florida or some parts of the southeast, allergy season can seem longer than ever before. Here’s why it seems to be lasting longer than normal this year, and what you can do about it.

The Culprits: Ragweed, Trees and Grasses

According to the experts, “Of the three major trees producing much pollen this year, oak, pine and palm are the major culprits.” Ragweed and grass are close behind.

Ragweed most commonly impacts allergy-suffers in the fall, but can be a headache, literally, at other times of year. With the right amount of wind behind it, ragweed allergens can actually travel for hundreds of miles, with one single plant producing more than one billion grains of pollen in a single season. In addition to an effective HVAC system, it’s a good idea to have professional weed control in the area surrounding the home and yard.

Oak and pine season stretches from December through May, and again from October through November. Grass pollen season lasts from April to October.

Florida's Extended Season: A Trifecta of Triggers

Of course, the rules hardly apply when it comes to Florida. Unfortunately, Florida’s allergy season is hardly a season, but instead can last all year. Regardless, spring tends to be the worst, as it offers a trifecta of allergens in bloom: trees, weeds and grasses. Because the weather in Florida rarely turns icy and the summers tend to be pretty humid—as opposed to dry—the pollen-producing flowers and trees tend to bloom for longer. In fact, according to the 2023

Allergy Capitals report, three of Florida’s cities appear in the list of the top 10 most allergy-challenged cities in the United States, with Sarasota in 6th place, Cape Coral in 7th and Orland in 8th place.

Mold: Another Major Florida Allergen

Another allergen Floridians ought to consider mitigating is mold. Because mold tends to thrive in humid and damp environments—no surprise here—there’s lots of it in Florida. You’ll also find it growing in decaying plant matter, such as decaying grass clippings or wet wood. Much like pollen allergens, mold spores spread with the wind and can easily make their way indoors. One way to address mold is to ensure that plant matter is regularly collected. Another way to deepen that treatment is by regularly servicing your A/C system.

Here’s What You Can Do About It: Taking Control of Your Allergies

Checking your daily pollen count is your secret weapon in the fight against Florida's seemingly endless allergy triggers. Use a website like Pollen.com. Once you know what the pollen count is going to look like (high, medium, low days), here’s how you can use this information to stay ahead of your symptoms.

Source: Pollen.com

High pollen days: Check your HVAC air filters and make sure they’re clean. If not, change them. Fire up all your air purifiers with HEPA. Consider taking your allergy medication as directed by your doctor, and limit outdoor time when possible.

Moderate pollen days: You may want to keep windows closed and rely on your air conditioner for fresh air. If you do go outside, take an allergy medication beforehand.

Low pollen days: Enjoy the fresh Florida air! But remember, pollen counts can change quickly. Stay informed and be prepared to take medication if needed.

Did you know that your HVAC system can help keep your house free of mold and allergens by controlling humidity levels and ensuring proper ventilation? It can also regulate your home’s humidity levels. When humidity is too high—much like in the Florida outdoors—mold grows. HVAC systems also circulate air, preventing the air from being too stagnant, which can also be inviting to mold growth.

At Filterbuy HVAC Solutions, we strongly encourage regular maintenance and cleaning of our A/C components, to keep everything running smoothly and free and clear for Florida’s seemingly endless allergy season.