Tackle Those Tricky Desert Allergies

Desert Climate Allergies Are Nothing To Sneeze At

It is often thought that relocating to a desert climate will alleviate the sniffling and itching that comes with seasonal allergies. While it may help to some extent, especially for those suffering from chronic allergies or asthma, it is nearly impossible to entirely escape the irritation of seasonal allergies. Check out these allergens commonly found in more arid atmospheres, and how improving your indoor air quality can help!

Insect-Carried Pollen

Many people are under the impression that because desert areas don’t have the plant abundance you see in Northern California, pollen-related allergies will be a thing of the past. However, many plants in desert climates, such as the butterfly bush and tidy-tips, still produce pollen and require bees to transfer that pollen to other flowers. This process can easily trigger seasonal allergies.

To avoid unpleasant allergy symptoms, change your clothes when coming inside as the irritants can easily stick to you and enter your home. And if, by chance, these pesky pollen particles do make their way inside, call a trained professional to help you improve your indoor air quality!

How HVAC Companies Can Help

HVAC companies can help people with allergies in the Coachella Valley during the fall when scalping bermuda grass and reseeding causes allergies to act up by improving the indoor air quality of their homes. 

• Inspect and clean the HVAC system. This includes cleaning the air ducts, coils, and filters. Clogged ducts and filters can trap allergens and other pollutants, making them circulate throughout the home.
• Install a high-efficiency air filter. A high-efficiency air filter can remove a wide range of allergens and pollutants from the air, including pollen, dust, dust mites, and pet dander.
• Install an air purifier. An air purifier can further help to clean the air by removing even smaller particles, such as smoke and viruses.
• Increase the humidity in the home. Dry air can irritate the airways and worsen allergy symptoms. Increasing the humidity in the home can help to relieve these symptoms.
• Seal any air leaks. Air leaks can allow allergens and other pollutants from the outdoors to enter the home. Sealing air leaks can help to improve the indoor air quality.

Bermuda Grass

Pollen particles carried on the wings of bees aren’t the only source of itchy eyes and watery noses; grass allergies are a major issue as well. Rather than being carried by insects, grass pollen is carried by the wind, meaning it can travel long distances and land almost anywhere.

Make sure to keep your own grass cut short to keep it from frequently pollinating, and make sure your home stays cool with AC rather than opening a window. If you’re worried your home will become too stuffy, consider having an air exchanger system installed.

Ragweed

The most common cause of weed-based allergies, ragweed pollen can heavily impact your respiratory system. It is another wind pollinator, meaning particles can enter your home through an open window. Once inside, it is up to your indoor air quality system to rid your home of these irritants before they can wreak havoc on your health.

In addition to these services, HVAC companies can also provide advice and recommendations to homeowners on how to improve the indoor air quality of their homes and reduce their exposure to allergens.

Here are some additional tips for people with allergies during the fall in the Coachella Valley:

• Avoid spending time outdoors during the peak pollen hours, which are typically early morning and late afternoon.
• Keep your windows and doors closed during the pollen season.
• Change your clothes and shower after spending time outdoors.
• Use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity in your home.
• Vacuum your floors and carpets regularly.
• Wash your bedding in hot water once a week.
• Avoid using scented candles and air fresheners.

If your air filtration system is not up to snuff, your unit may be working harder than it should to keep your family comfortable. This not only wastes energy but will also lead to a spike in your power bill! Consider calling a specialist to check your unit’s efficiency!

For over 30 years, Hydes has been diligently serving residents of the Coachella Valley area and have built a reputation of trustworthiness and dependability throughout the region. We would be happy to help you with all your HVAC needs. Give us a call at (760)-360-2202 today!