Expert Tips for Fighting Seasonal Allergies
April 03, 2025
April brings so many things to love—the warmer weather, the budding trees, and the colorful gardens that highlight Mother Nature's beauty. But there's another reason to celebrate this season, especially if you're a pet lover: April 10 is National Hug Your Dog Day!
We know you love your dog and will celebrate by giving your pup plenty of belly rubs and hugs. (We certainly love ours.) But if hugging Fido triggers allergies, you're not alone. According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 3 adults has a seasonal allergy. And dogs running in and out of the house can easily expose us to pollen and other allergens that make us sneeze and itch. So, with spring allergies on the horizon, our HVAC maintenance pros thought now would be a great time to offer solutions and help prevent allergy flare-ups.
Is My Indoor Air Causing My Allergies?
First, let’s determine if your indoor air is compromised. Do you or any of your family members experience any of these symptoms regularly:
- Headaches
- Dry, itchy skin and throat
- Dizziness
- Disrupted sleep
- Fatigue
- Itchy eyes and nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Breathing issues
If you answered yes, then Fido may not be the main cause of your allergies. Your indoor air could be to blame. So, what can you do? Start by improving your indoor air quality and be sure to speak with your doctor to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and explore the best treatment options.
Solutions for Defeating Spring Allergies
Along with allergy medications, there are many effective ways to help reduce allergies. One key solution is the use of indoor air filtration systems. Decent indoor air quality systems will help fight poor indoor air that is often caused by the following:
- Pet dander
- Dust and pollen
- Dust mites
- Perfumes
- Bacteria and viruses
- Mold and mildew
- Cleaning chemicals
These everyday household pollutants can cause a myriad of allergy triggers. However, an efficient indoor air quality system may help eliminate them and keep your air clean and filtered. Here are some systems to consider:
Air purifiers
These systems do just what they say. They purify the air by trapping yucky airborne particles such as pollen, dust, pet dander, and bacteria.
UV light filtration
UV (ultraviolet) systems use ultraviolet light technology to zap airborne pathogens such as mold, pollen, bacteria, dust mites, and viruses.
Dehumidifiers
Too much moisture in your house can cause mold, musty smells, water stains, and even respiratory issues. Dehumidifiers remove excessive moisture from your home and balance your indoor air so you and your family can breathe easier.
Extra Tips for Spring Allergies
Breathing clean indoor air is one way to help combat allergies. Here are some additional tips that may help:
- Change air filters regularly. (Questions about air filters? Ask our techs when they do your spring AC tune-up!)
- Avoid going outside during peak “pollen hours” of 5–10 a.m. and 2–5 p.m.
- Wash bedding and sheets regularly (especially if Fido sleeps with you).
- Avoid mowing the lawn, weeding, or other activities that might stir up pollen.
- Turn on the air conditioning and close the windows.
- Talk to your doctor about allergy medications.
- Wash your hands each time you come indoors.
- Change clothing after being outside.
- Wear a mask if you must be outdoors during the pollen season.
Happy Spring! Now, go hug your dog!