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Struggling with seasonal allergies? You're not alone, whether it's itchy eyes, runny noses, or other allergy symptoms. It can be frustrating, and we understand how it affects you daily. That’s why, in this post, we’ll dig deeper into the causes of seasonal allergies and how air filters can help manage these symptoms. We'll also talk about MERV ratings and how they can impact indoor air quality. Read on to learn more.
Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, are a widespread health concern affecting millions of Americans. Recent data from the CDC paints a concerning picture:
Over 50 million people in the US experience allergies each year, making it the sixth most common chronic illness.Seasonal allergies are the most prevalent allergy type, impacting over 25% of adults and nearly 20% of children.Allergies, both seasonal and food-related, are on the rise. Food allergies, in particular, now affect about one in thirteen children. [1]
The impact of allergies extends beyond personal discomfort. Seasonal allergies alone are responsible for an estimated 4.1 million doctor visits annually. Meanwhile, food allergies are the leading cause of anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
Nearly every plant produces pollen. Trees, grass, and weeds are the primary sources of seasonal allergies. These plant species create fine pollen particles that travel by the wind. Larger pollens (30+ microns) tend to fall to the ground, making them less problematic for allergy sufferers than smaller pollens that float in the air and can easily make their way into your respiratory system. If you have no idea what triggers your allergies, here are common allergens to note for:
The quality of indoor air plays a pivotal role in managing and reducing the symptoms of seasonal allergies, thus underscoring the importance of effective air filters. Poor indoor air quality could potentially exacerbate existing allergies and trigger new ones.
1. Dust and Pollen: These airborne allergens can infiltrate homes, but efficient air filters can trap these particles, preventing them from circulating indoors.
2. Mold Spores and Pet Dander: High-quality air filters can also remove mold spores and pet dander, common triggers of seasonal allergies.
3. Airborne Chemicals: Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from household products can irritate the respiratory system. Air filters can help reduce these chemicals in the air, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
Some allergens originate inside your home. Examples include mold, pet dander, and dust. While you might think you can escape allergens by staying indoors, seasonal foes like pollen can be surprisingly sneaky. Here's how they hitch a ride into your home:
Even with these sneaky invaders, air filters can be a powerful weapon in your fight against seasonal allergies. We'll explore how these filters work and how to choose the right one for your needs in the next section. If you get allergy attacks, we recommend sourcing the best home air filter for allergies possible.
An air filter's design allows it to capture air particles and contaminants as the air flows through the filter material. This helps purify the air, keeping contaminants out of the HVAC system and out of your respiratory system.
The key to mitigating seasonal allergies is using an air filter that can capture fine pollen particles, but not every filter has that capability.
Air filters act like magnets for allergy triggers. They draw in air, then trap dust, pollen, and other nasties in a fine mesh filter. The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the particles it can trap, making a big difference in your indoor air quality and reducing allergy symptoms.
READ MORE: All About MERV Ratings
As we’ve mentioned before, there’s not much difference between the terms “air filter” and “furnace filter.” What makes a great seasonal allergy air filter also makes a great seasonal allergy furnace filter. That said, they need to have a MERV rating of 9-13, fit well, and be replaced or cleaned regularly.
Start feeling relief from seasonal allergies today. Find the best air filter for allergy sufferers at Filterbuy. MERV 13 air filters and custom-size air filters are available online!When choosing an air filter, you have several MERV rating options to consider. MERV 8 filters provide basic protection by capturing larger pollen and dust mites with 70-85% efficiency, making them suitable for basic filtration needs with replacement needed every 90 days. For enhanced filtration, MERV 11 filters capture fine dust and pet dander with 85-95% efficiency, making them ideal for homes with pets, requiring replacement every 60 days. And if you want maximum protection, MERV 13 filters capture microscopic allergens with over 95% efficiency, making them perfect for severe allergy sufferers, though they need replacement more frequently, every 30-45 days.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Pollen particles can range from 2.5 to 200 micron. The smaller the particles are the worse it is for your allergies. The smallest particles can travel the farthest and can easily make their way into your nostrils.
The goal is to use an air filter that can filter out particles as small as 2.5 microns. To figure that out, take a look at the MERV rating. It will tell you if an air filter can capture the smallest pollen particles. MERV ratings range from 1 to 20. A higher rating means it can filter out smaller particles.
Choosing the Right Air Filter for Seasonal Allergies: Forget fancy brands, focus on MERV rating. This rating indicates how small a particle the filter can trap. Aim for MERV 9-12 to capture most pollen (as small as 1 micron). Higher MERVs restrict airflow and aren't necessary for allergies.
No air filter lasts forever. You’ll either need to replace the air filter or clean it (depending on the filter material and design.) Upkeep is essential, as once an air filter is full, it can no longer clear contaminants out of the air. This means that seasonal allergies could make their way through an old air filter or no longer be filtered out if your air filter is clogged or dirty.
Another problem that can hinder any air filter from doing its job is improper fit. The air filter needs to fit the filter compartment perfectly, or unfiltered air will flow through the HVAC system and into your home. That’s why measuring and sizing your replacement air filter is the key to maximum filtration for seasonal allergies.
Learn more about air filter or furnace filter sizes.
Yes. They significantly help with seasonal allergies. This equipment works by capturing various allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander present in the air. This creates a healthier indoor environment for individuals with seasonal allergies to breathe.
High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter is the best one for allergies. Their high efficiency makes them ideal for individuals who suffer from allergies.
Here are some additional tips:
For most allergy sufferers, a MERV rating of 9-12 is ideal. These filters can trap small particles like pollen (as small as 1 micron) that trigger allergy symptoms. While higher MERV filters exist, they can restrict airflow and aren't necessary for allergen removal.
Yes. A dirty one indeed exacerbates allergies. Its efficiency in trapping particles decreases when it becomes saturated with dust and other allergens. It also leads to an increase of allergens in your indoor air, triggering or worsening allergic symptoms.
Yes. Changing one is worth it. A clean pollen filter can effectively trap pollen particles that enter your home, reducing their concentration in the air. This significantly alleviates the symptoms of individuals with pollen allergies, making it easier for them to breathe.
Your existing one should be replaced every 60 to 90 days. However, frequent replacement is necessary between 30 to 45 days if you have pets or if someone in your household has allergies. This preventive task ensures your existing equipment remains effective in capturing allergens.
Air purifiers with HEPA filters help eliminate allergens from the air. Regular cleaning of surfaces or ventilating your home also aids in maintaining a humidity level of 30-50%. This prevents the growth of mold and dust mites.
HEPA filter is the best air filter for severe allergies. These filters capture up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including most allergens. For severe allergies, it might also be beneficial to opt for an air purifier that includes additional features, such as a UV-C light to kill bacteria and viruses.
Yes, air filters can catch mold. Specifically, HEPA filters trap mold spores, preventing them from circulating in your indoor air. This helps protect your health, as inhaling mold spores causes allergic reactions and other health problems.
Allergy filters do work effectively. They capture small particles, including the most common allergens. By reducing the concentration of allergens in the air, allergy filters can help alleviate the symptoms of individuals with allergies.
It will take a few hours for your AC to work after changing its air filter. Also, it needs some time for the air quality to significantly improve. It is because your equipment needs to circulate the air through the new filter multiple times to remove the majority of the airborne particles.
The number of these equipment in a house varies depending on the number of units and standalone purifiers present. Generally, each HVAC system has at least one air filter that needs to be replaced regularly. Standalone air purifiers also have their filters.
Yes. AC filters out pollen. Most AC units have filters that can capture larger particles, such as pollen. However, for optimal pollen removal, you might want to consider using a HEPA filter in your AC unit or using a standalone air purifier with a HEPA filter.
For your convenience, air filters can be easily purchased online at Filterbuy. This allows you to explore a wide variety of options, compare prices, and have them delivered directly to your doorstep.
