Dealing with Atlanta’s Pollen Season

Spring is Coming!! Spring is Coming!! After such a harsh February, spring sounds great. Thoughts of milder temperatures and vacations at the Beach fill our daydreams. The arrival of spring also means the beginning of pollen season here in Atlanta. That fine yellow dust covers everything! Causing puffy eyes, runny noses, sneezing and trips to the Pharmacy for the latest “cure­-all.”

For some of us it’s a few weeks of mild irritation. For others pollen is more like kryptonite to Superman. This time of year can be more dangerous for the elderly, very young and those with respiratory problems. There isn’t much that can done about the outside pollen except limit your exposure. However, there are a few things you can do about the pollen that finds it’s way into your home on your clothes and every time a door opens in order to improve Indoor Air Quality (I.A.Q.), the simplest and easiest is changing your air filters in the early spring.

When the pollen count is through the roof, consider using a higher M.E.R.V.* filter and change it more often, say every 30 to 45 days. Not only will this help your family breathe easier, but will also keep the accumulation inside your home to a minimum. Once the pollen levels return to normal, switch back to a standard M.E.R.V. filter and your normal schedule, changing it about every 3 months.

Another precaution that most people miss is to change the cabin filter in your vehicle at least once each year. Check with the manufacturer to be sure of the proper schedule. Replacing the filter in late spring prevents you from riding around with full season of pollen in the vent system of your car.

For those of you who’s health requires cleaner air or someone who wants the best possible indoor air quality, several options are available, including Electronic Filtration and Ultra Violet Germicidal Purification. Talk with your A/C professional to determine which one best suits your needs.

As always, please contact us with any questions you may have.