It’s National Clean Air Month! This means now is the perfect time for your Beavercreek Heating & Cooling experts to take advantage of the opportunity to reemphasize the importance of indoor air quality (IAQ). Did you know that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air? This is because the same air is recirculated throughout your home without proper filtration or ventilation. Boosting your home’s indoor air quality is important as it’s where you live most of your time. Keep reading to find out just exactly what the do’s and don’ts of indoor air quality are.
Sources of Indoor Air Pollution
Here are some examples of odors that may reduce the IAQ in your home:
- Dust
- Germs
- Viruses
- Mold & mildew
- Pet odor
- Tobacco smoke
- Cooking smells
- Airborne chemicals
- Humidity
- Allergy irritants
- Pollen
1. Stop Forgetting to Change Your Air Filters
With so many tasks to remember, it’s easy to push some of them to the back burner. However, there is one task that should never be overlooked – changing your air filters on time. Air filters play a crucial role in maintaining healthy indoor air quality. They filter out dust, dirt, pollen, and other pollutants from our air. As these particles accumulate on the filter over time, it becomes less effective in trapping new particles, reducing its efficiency and potentially causing harm to your health.
Instead:
Generally, you should change your air filters every 1-2 months, but it also depends on what type of air filters you have. By regularly changing your air filters, you can reduce the amount of dust, dirt, and other pollutants in the air you breathe.
2. Stop Letting Odors Accumulate
Odor happens. It’s natural and nothing to be ashamed of. Whether it’s from cooking, pets, or other household activities, odors can quickly build up and linger in your home, causing a stuffy atmosphere and ultimately lowering your home’s indoor air quality. Additionally, some odors can be harmful to your health if left unchecked. Things like harsh chemicals in cleaning products are really not that great to breathe in.
Instead:
Use a whole-home air purifier like the iWave-R. This system is installed to work together with your HVAC unit and uses patented technology to purify the air, eliminating odors and other harmful particles. The great thing about this whole-home air purifier is that it self-cleans, which means little to no maintenance. You get boosted air quality without putting forth extra effort aside from the initial installation process!
OR
Another great option is the installation of UV lights. UV lights are expertly installed within your air ducts and are positioned to neutralize airborne pathogens before they circulate throughout your residence. On the bright side (no pun intended), these UV bulbs require replacement only once every 2-3 years, which makes their utilization that much more convenient.
3. Stop Letting Moisture Build Up
Excess moisture in your home can lead to mold growth, which can cause respiratory issues and other health problems. It’s essential to regularly check for signs of moisture buildup, such as water stains on the ceiling or walls, musty odors, or condensation on windows.
Instead:
If you have a particularly humid home, consider getting a whole-home dehumidifier. This device works alongside your HVAC system to reduce moisture in the air, preventing mold growth and improving indoor air quality. It also helps lower energy costs by reducing strain on your AC unit.
4. Stop Ignoring Your HVAC System’s Maintenance Needs
Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping you comfortable year-round, but it needs regular maintenance to function properly. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs and inefficient performance. Some signs that your system needs maintenance include strange noises, foul odors, poor airflow, and higher energy bills.
Instead: Schedule annual HVAC maintenance appointments. Regular tune-ups can catch any issues before they become major problems, keeping your system running smoothly and efficiently. This not only saves you money in the long run but also extends the lifespan of your HVAC system.
Taking care of your HVAC system is crucial for maintaining a healthy and comfortable home. By following these tips, you can improve indoor air quality, eliminate odors, prevent mold growth, and save money on energy bills. Don’t let these tasks become forgotten – make them a regular part of your household maintenance routine. Remember, a happy and healthy home starts with clean and well-maintained air!
Call Beavercreek Heating & Cooling today at (937) 708-8527, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
