If you’ve been sneezing (a lot), you’re not alone. Allergy season is hitting hard in Oregon — and it tends to last longer here thanks to our milder climate. Known as the “Grass Seed Capital of the World,” Oregon is especially tough on allergy sufferers this time of year.
The good news? There are simple things you can do at home to breathe easier that can also help you save on your energy bills. Here are five easy, low-cost and no-cost ways to reduce allergens and save energy:
Use a portable air purifier
Air purifiers can help remove some of the most common allergens like pollen, dust and pet dander. Energy Trust offers an instant $75 discount on ENERGY STAR air purifiers, which use less energy than other You can order energy-efficient air purifiers online here with free shipping. You can also check this list to find a store near you. Keep an eye out for models that use HEPA filters, which according to the EPA are most effective at capturing allergens.
Replace your air filter frequently
During peak allergy season or if your community is experiencing bad air quality from wildfire smoke, check the filter in your heating and cooling system more often. A standard recommendation is to check the filter every months – but during allergy season, check it every few weeks. Filters with higher MERV ratings – which means they have a finer weave that catches more particles and allergens than standard filters — may also strain your system because they create more resistance to airflow, making the system work harder to move the same amount of air through, so always check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Run your system in “fan only” mode
Set your heating or cooling system to “fan only” during allergy season to keep air circulating through the filter, even when it’s not actively heating or cooling. Just remember to switch it back to “auto” before any hot weather sets in – and before any cold weather sets in later in the year.
Keep allergens out by sealing gaps around doors, windows and window air conditioners. Install weatherstripping or close outdoor air dampers. Make sure all seals are as tight as possible to prevent unfiltered air from sneaking in. Here are tips on finding potential air leaks in your home and what resources are available for fixing them.
Avoid adding more particles indoors
Skip the candles, incense, aerosol sprays and frying or broiling on high heat — all of these create fine particles that can worsen indoor air quality. When the pollen count drops or air quality improves, open windows or use the fresh air intake on your heating and cooling system to ventilate your home.
By taking these small steps, you can breathe easier during allergy season — and enjoy the bonus of minimizing your energy bills all year long.