How to Improve Indoor Air Quality During Allergy Season

When pollen counts spike and your nose starts to twitch, home should be your haven—not another battleground for allergies. But if your eyes are watering indoors, too, there’s a hidden culprit: poor indoor air quality (IAQ).

At GOGO Heating, we understand how quickly allergy season can turn comfort into chaos. With decades of experience keeping homes and businesses breathing easy, we know what works—and what’s just hot air. Here’s how to make your air as fresh as a spring breeze, even when allergy season is in full swing.

Why IAQ Matters During Allergy Season 🌿

Spring and fall bring beauty—and misery for allergy sufferers. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) all float inside, turning your living room into an invisible obstacle course.

Allergens and pollutants settle deep in carpets, lurk in ductwork, and ride the breeze from your HVAC system. If your heating or cooling system isn’t in top shape, or your filters are overdue for a change, you’re inviting all those irritants to stay awhile.

The result? More sneezing, headaches, itchy eyes, and restless nights. For those with asthma or respiratory conditions, even mild exposure can be dangerous. Clean air isn’t a luxury—it’s a basic need during allergy season.

Best Filtration and Purification Upgrades

Not all air filters are created equal. Some are like fishing nets with holes too big—missing the tiny stuff that causes big problems.

Upgrade your filters:

• High-efficiency pleated filters (look for MERV 11–13 ratings) are your first line of defense. Change them every 1–3 months during heavy pollen seasons.
• HEPA filters trap even smaller particles, but not all HVAC systems can handle their density—ask a professional before upgrading.
• Electrostatic filters attract and trap particles like a magnet, but require regular washing.

Add purification to the mix:

• UV air scrubbers zap germs, mold, and bacteria as air cycles through your ducts—think of them as a bouncer for your air.
• Whole-home air purifiers work alongside your HVAC system and target allergens throughout your space, not just one room.
• Portable purifiers with HEPA filters are great for bedrooms or offices, giving you a safe zone when pollen peaks outside.

For more on filter options and upgrades, see our filters service page.

Cleaning and Ventilation Tips

You don’t need a hazmat suit, but a little extra elbow grease makes a world of difference during allergy season.

Dust and vacuum often:

• Use vacuums with HEPA filters to keep particles from escaping back into the room.
• Microfiber dusters grab more dirt than feather dusters, which just send dust flying.

Wash bedding and curtains:

• Hot water kills dust mites hiding in sheets and pillowcases.
• Don’t forget to launder throw blankets, pet beds, and washable rugs.

Keep humidity in check:

• Aim for 30–50% relative humidity. Too much invites mold; too little dries out sinuses.
• Dehumidifiers and humidifiers can balance your air and reduce allergen survival.

Let fresh air in—when it’s safe:

• Open windows on low-pollen days or after rain, but shut them when pollen counts soar.
• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to send moisture and VOCs outside.

Professional Solutions for Allergy Relief

Sometimes, DIY just isn’t enough. That’s when the pros at GOGO Heating come in.

We offer:

• Indoor Air Quality Testing: Get a clear picture of what’s floating in your air. Our tests detect pollen, mold spores, VOCs, and more.
• Duct cleaning: Remove years of dust, pet hair, and allergens hiding in hard-to-reach places.
• Air balancing: Make sure every room gets the right amount of filtered, conditioned air.
• System upgrades: From programmable thermostats to smart air scrubbers, we’ll match the right technology to your needs.

For local support, explore Indoor Air Quality near me in Aberdeen, South Dakota.

Cleaning & Maintenance Checklist

• Change HVAC filters every 1–3 months, or more often if you have pets or allergies.
• Schedule annual heating and cooling maintenance—well-tuned systems filter better.
• Inspect ductwork for visible mold or dust buildup.
• Wipe down vents and registers regularly.
• Clean or replace portable air purifier filters as directed.

DIY vs. Calling a Pro

Some tasks are safe for homeowners. Others call for a skilled hand.

DIY:

• Swapping out filters
• Dusting vents
• Using portable air purifiers

Call a pro:

• Deep duct cleaning (special tools, safety gear needed)
• IAQ testing (requires calibrated sensors)
• Whole-home air purifier or UV system installation
• Heating or cooling system tune-ups

When in doubt, play it safe. Professionals follow industry standards like those from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the EPA.

Common Questions

How often should I change my HVAC filter during allergy season?
Every 1–2 months is a safe bet, but check monthly if you have pets, allergies, or lots of dust.

Can houseplants help with indoor air quality?
Some can absorb certain pollutants, but they won’t tackle allergens like pollen and dust.

Are portable air purifiers worth it?
Yes—especially in bedrooms or offices. Look for True HEPA filters and clean them regularly.

Local & Seasonal Considerations

Allergy triggers vary by region and season, but the basics stay the same. In the upper Midwest, for example, tree pollen peaks in spring; grasses and weeds take over in summer and fall. Heating systems kick on in autumn—prime time to check filters and schedule maintenance.

If you live in a high-pollen area or near busy roads, indoor air quality upgrades are even more important. And remember: heating and ventilation aren’t just about comfort—they’re about health.

Ready to breathe easier this allergy season?
Call GOGO Heating now — or reach us anytime at  844-467-0847 .