If you're an allergy sufferer, you know that springtime can be absolutely miserable. Not only is the air filled with pollen, but animals shed more as they rid themselves of their winter coats in preparation for warmer weather. While medication can help, it's not the only answer. Here's how you can reduce allergens and improve the air quality in your house.

Get A Home Air Purifier

A whole house air purifier is added to your existing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. It operates when you use your system for both heating and cooling purposes. A whole house air purifier can reduce:

• Dust
• Smoke
• Cooking odors
• Mold spores
• Bacteria
• Pollen
• Pet dander and fur

They can also reduce the amount of cold and flu viruses circulating throughout your home. This can prevent the spreading of disease to the entire family. It's also good for those with impaired immune systems.

A separate, stand-alone air filtration system that works independently of your HVAC equipment is another option. However, portable air purifiers are generally designed to only filter one room. Therefore, you would likely need more than one to achieve the desired results.

How Does A Home Air Purifier Work?

An air purifier uses High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters to filter the air. These filters have a fine mesh that can trap particles invisible to the naked eye. They also use activated charcoal, or another substance known as zeolite, to remove foul odors in the air. This is a big advantage to people who can't open their windows due to allergies, pollution, or high temps but still want ventilation.

In addition to HEPA filters, there are other filters available. A HEGA (High Efficiency Gas Absorption) filter results from military technology. It uses carbon to trap odors and polluted air. A HyperHEPA filter is even better at trapping small particles than a traditional HEPA filter.

For those who are extremely sensitive to chemicals, homeowners have the option to purchase an air purifier for multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS). This can reduce the adverse reaction to normal household chemicals and health and beauty aids.

An ultraviolet filter is your best bet if germs and contagions are your primary concern. An ultraviolet light essentially electrocutes any airborne bacteria or viruses that find its way into the filter. For people with impaired lung function or a weakened immune system, an ultraviolet filter can dramatically reduce airborne illnesses.