Many media outlets report daily pollen and mold counts. Presumably they are accurate. Doubtless they are different from the count where you are now. They mean little when you go inside. It's common knowledge that counts go up in the morning and the evening, and in the spring and the fall. You care how your pollen counter - your nose feels, and it may not agree with the TV reports. What means more to you? The count is good science which on a good day may tell you what you already know.

Electrostatic and HEPA air filters are useful for cleaning the home environment. For a number of reasons, premium filters may not do much more than cheap ones for managing allergies. It is worth purchasing a good quality air filter, but the high end products may not be a necessity. When in doubt, ASK!