Springtime is a welcome change after the long winter months but it also increases allergens and pollutants that can impact indoor air quality. This can adversely affect the health of yourself and your family, including potentially exasperating respiratory issues, allergies, and asthma. Therefore, it is good to take measures to improve indoor air quality. Here are some tips from us for improving your indoor air quality.
Regularly Change HVAC Filters
HVAC filters capture airborne particles, such as pollen, dust, and pet dander, that can cause allergies as air flows through the system. These types of particles often contribute to issues such as allergies, respiratory issues and decreased overall air quality in your home, so filtering them out of your air helps to protect you and your family from those types of issues. Over time, the filters become clogged with trapped particles, reducing the airflow and forcing the HVAC system to work harder, which can result in higher energy bills. Clogged filters can also lead to the circulation of pollutants throughout your home, impacting indoor air quality.
It’s recommended to change HVAC filters every one to three months, depending on your usage and type of filter. Pleated filters, which have a larger surface area than flat filters, can capture more particles and may need to be changed less frequently. High-efficiency filters like HEPA filters are even more effective at trapping small particles and pollutants.
Use Natural Ventilation
Natural ventilation involves opening, allowing fresh air to circulate throughout your home. By doing so, you can reduce the concentration of indoor air pollutants.
To use natural ventilation effectively, it’s essential to consider the time of day, outdoor weather conditions, and your home’s layout. It’s recommended to open windows and doors when outdoor air quality is good, such as after rain or when pollen counts are low. It’s also recommended to open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross-breeze, promoting airflow.
In some cases, outdoor air quality may be poor, such as during high pollen counts or pollution alerts. In these cases, it’s recommended to use other strategies, such as air purifiers or HVAC filters.
Clean Your Home Regularly.
Cleaning helps remove dust, dirt, and other pollutants that accumulate over time. It can include vacuuming carpets, dusting surfaces, and washing bedding and curtains.
It’s important to be mindful of the products you’re using to clean your home, such as surface cleaners and disinfectants. If you find more traditional products are causing reactions with you or your family, looking into more eco-friendly cleaning products may be advisable.
Control Humidity Levels
High levels can lead to mold growth, musty odors, and other indoor air quality issues. Conversely, low humidity levels can lead to dry skin, respiratory problems, and other health issues.
Humidity levels can be controlled by using a dehumidifier or humidifier, depending on the needs of your home. Dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air, while humidifiers add moisture. Both can be effective in improving indoor air quality.
You can take other steps to control humidity levels in your home. These include fixing leaks or water damage, ensuring proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens, and using exhaust fans when cooking or showering.
It’s also recommended to monitor humidity levels regularly using a hygrometer. This device can help you determine when humidity levels are too high or too low and allow you to adjust your dehumidifier or humidifier accordingly.
Choose Low-emission Products
Low-emission products are those that release fewer pollutants into the air. These can include products such as paint, cleaning products, and building materials. When choosing products for your home, it’s important to look for those labeled as low-emission or low-VOC. These products have been designed to release fewer pollutants, which can help to improve indoor air quality.
Contact Us
At Air Care Heating & Cooling, we are a reputable HVAC company to the residents of Shawnee, KS, and the greater Kansas City area. We offer many services to ensure homes are comfortable and safe. Our services go beyond just heating and cooling; we also offer air quality testing and duct cleaning to improve indoor air quality. We also provide energy-efficient solutions to help save on utility bills and reduce carbon footprint. Contact Air Care Heating & Cooling today for more information!
