Follow These Simple Tips To Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality
When we talk about air pollution, the first things that come to mind are often factories emitting smoke, cars on the road producing exhaust, and other outdoor sources. However, you may not know it, but air quality problems can also occur indoors.
The average person spends a significant amount of time indoors. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to indoor air quality. Fortunately, there are many ways of improving the air quality inside your home to safeguard the health of your loved ones. Below, we look into what constitutes indoor air quality, the potential sources of indoor air pollution, and provide practical steps on how to improve indoor air quality in your home.
Understanding Indoor Air Quality
Contents
- 1 Understanding Indoor Air Quality
- 2 Trust Townsend Energy for all Your Home Comfort Needs
Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a term used to describe the condition of the air we breathe while inside enclosed spaces. The quality of the air can have a significant impact on our overall health and well-being. Our mood and comfort are also affected by the quality of air. With that out of the way, did you know that research has shown the level of air contamination indoors can be much higher than that outdoors? The main cause of the contamination is modern building construction practices.
As we strive for greater energy efficiency, we tend to create more airtight structures. The result is reduced ventilation and the accumulation of irritants in the air, which can lead to dangerous levels of indoor air pollution over time. Moreover, air ducts can recirculate dirt, dust, and dander, which can further exacerbate the issue.
What Causes Poor Indoor Air Quality?
Indoor air quality can be negatively affected by various factors related to our lifestyle. For example, the pets that we keep for companionship and security can produce a significant amount of fur and dander that can trigger allergies. Volatile organic compounds can be released from paint-covered walls. Dirt and dust can enter the house through shoes or the HVAC system. Persistent moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, and household chemicals can also contribute to indoor air pollution.
What Are the Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality?
It is crucial to pay attention to indoor air quality since it can significantly impact our health and well-being. Poor air quality can lead to respiratory ailments such as asthma attacks, coughing, and breathing difficulties. Your loved ones may experience chronic fatigue and digestive problems, and in severe cases, it may even cause cancer. Therefore, you should monitor and work on improving indoor air quality to prevent any health hazards.
The Impact of HVAC Ductwork on Indoor Air Quality
The HVAC system is responsible for circulating air throughout the home. Unfortunately, the ductwork that transports this air can accumulate pollutants over time. This can result in contaminated air circulating throughout the house.
Why You Should Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
Poor indoor air quality can lead to a wide range of health issues. Therefore, improving indoor air quality is crucial for the well-being of the people living in the house.
Improving Indoor Air Quality with Your HVAC System
Your HVAC system can help improve indoor air quality in several ways. These include:
1. Air Filters
One of the most important ways of improving indoor air quality is by using air filters designed to remove pollutants from the air. These HVAC air filters need to be cleaned or replaced periodically to maintain their efficiency. A monthly inspection is recommended to determine when cleaning or replacement is necessary.
2. Ultraviolet (UV) Lights
While UV light can be harmful to humans, it can also be used as a solution to indoor air pollution. UV light has been shown to effectively destroy harmful pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and mold. Installing UV lamps in the HVAC system can help eliminate these contaminants. Talk to your HVAC contractor to see if this is a viable solution for your home.
3. Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers
Maintaining a comfortable humidity level is crucial for indoor air quality. Low humidity in the winter can cause respiratory problems. On the other hand, high humidity in the summer can lead to the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Humidifiers and dehumidifiers can help regulate the moisture level in your home. Modern HVAC systems also offer humidity control features. Therefore, if you have an older unit, consider upgrading to one with this functionality. Contact your local HVAC company for more information.
4. Ductwork Inspections
The ducts in an HVAC system are responsible for distributing indoor air throughout a home to keep your loved ones comfortable. However, if the ducts are contaminated with pollutants, the entire house will be filled with polluted air. To prevent this from happening, you should perform regular inspections of the ductwork to ensure that it is clean and free from pollutants.
If there is a leak in the ductwork, pollutants and dirt can enter the system and circulate throughout the indoor air. Therefore, if you have forced-air HVAC systems, ensure you maintain their ductwork regularly by scheduling inspections with their HVAC contractor.
By conducting regular inspections and ensuring that the ductwork is clean and free from pollutants, you can improve their indoor air quality and protect the health of their loved ones.
5. Tune-Ups for Your HVAC System
Regular maintenance of your heating and cooling system is essential to keep it running efficiently and prevent problems. HVAC tune-ups can help identify issues related to indoor air quality and resolve them immediately.
Additionally, complying with warranty conditions will help keep it valid. It is recommended to have your heating and cooling system tuned up at least once a year.
Trust Townsend Energy for all Your Home Comfort Needs
Maintaining indoor air quality is crucial for maintaining good health and comfort. It’s important to take action when necessary. Thankfully, with the help of professional services and a little bit of vigilance, you can easily enjoy clean and healthy air for stress-free living.
At Townsend Energy, we are committed to providing superior heating and cooling services in the area. Our team is made up of experienced and industry-certified technicians who can provide excellent HVAC tune-ups, installations, repairs, and replacements. We prioritize energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall comfort with every service we provide.
If you’re looking to improve the air quality in your home, contact Townsend Energy today for a free consultation. Our team will work with you to find the best solutions for your needs and budget. Moreover, all of our work is guaranteed to ensure your complete satisfaction. Don’t wait any longer to start breathing easily in your home. Call us today to learn more about what Townsend Energy can do for you.
Contact us now at (800) 722-4101 to find out more! Click the link to view our service area.