During the winter season in Austin, Texas, certain allergens are out in full force. You may feel like you’re coming down with a cold when the culprit is actually your allergies. Read on to learn the most common wintertime allergens in the area and how to boost your home’s IAQ.
Ashe Juniper
The Ashe juniper tree, also known as the mountain cedar, produces significant amounts of pollen during the winter months. On sunny, cool days during the season, these trees explode with pollen. As a result, they can send clouds of pollen throughout the city.
Even those who don’t suffer from year-round allergies can be impacted by what locals refer to as cedar fever. This pollen can create a reaction that makes your body feel like it’s coming down with the flu. It can cause you to feel body aches, fatigue and severe headaches.
Prevent the cedar tree pollen from entering your home by keeping doors and windows closed during the winter season, even on milder days. Change the filter in your HVAC system every month. As a result, you’ll prevent pollen or other allergens from re-circulating around your home.
Ragweed
Another common allergen that impacts indoor air quality during the late fall and early winter is ragweed. Since the weather is mild throughout much of the year in Austin, ragweed plants continue to produce and release pollen. This particular plant is also unique in that it releases its pollen at night. As a result, it causes allergic reactions in people who spend time outdoors during the evening hours.
Combat ragweed pollens by washing your bedding in hot, soapy water at least once a week. Clean your home to remove any traces of this pollen, and use a vacuum outfitted with a HEPA-rated filter.
Using an air purifier can also remove trace amounts of allergens from the air. As a result, it’ll help you and your family to breathe easier.
At Woods Comfort Systems, we offer indoor air quality solutions that help remove contaminants from your home. Contact us at 512-842-5066 to maintain a healthier atmosphere.
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