Indoor allergens and air pollution have become much more important in recent years because individuals are spending more time indoors. The ongoing pandemic has forced people to stay indoors more than normal. Because of this, people are constantly looking for ways to improve their indoor air quality. Fritts Heating & Air discusses ways to improve your indoor air quality this season.
Install An Air Purifier
Sometimes our home’s HVAC system can be the center of many problems. If the HVAC system’s ducts are dirty, or mold has gotten into them, air quality decreases. With that being said, the HVAC system can also serve as the center of your air-quality improvement project. By adding an air purifier to your system, you will see a significant increase in the quality of air. Air purifiers have multiple benefits that include:
- Reduces dust, pollen, and animal dander.
- Kills bacteria, mold, and viruses.
- Reduces odors and chemical emissions.
Air Duct Cleaning
One of the major sources of indoor air pollutants is your HVAC system’s air ducts. An air duct can be a permanent landing spot for dirt, dust, animal dander, pests, mold, and more. If you have an older home, consider how many years your ducts may have been harboring these sources of airborne pollution and moving them around your home. A simple and easy way to reduce pollutions and improve your home’s air quality is by cleaning your air ducts. Not only will the cleaning reduce pollutants in your home, but clean ducts will distribute air more efficiently, reducing the load on your system and saving you money as well.
Air Quality & Humidity
The late Spring and early Summer months bring high humidity levels. These high outdoor temperatures will increase the humidity levels inside your home as well. With humidity comes mold, and mold is a key factor in decreased air quality. A simple way to combat mold and other air pollutions are by purchasing a portable humidifier. While this may be an inexpensive option, these portable units can be fairly loud and require you to empty them on a regular basis. An alternative is to have a whole-home dehumidifier installed in your HVAC system. If this is something you are considering for your home, be sure to call Fritts Heating & Air for more information.
Improve Ventilation & Air Quality
The majority of homeowners spend a ton of time in the kitchen. Cooking indoors releases high levels of pollutants and can even produce smoke and particulates when you cook on electric stovetops. Outdoor fresh air is the best ventilation but here are a few other tips to improve indoor ventilation.
- Use your range hood fan effectively. Don’t just turn on the hood’s fan when you have a smoking skillet. Make a habit of turning it on when you begin cooking.
- Open a window. If you want a bit more ventilation, use a fan in the window to suck the air out of the kitchen.
- A quality HEPA-rated air filter will remove up to 99% of particulates in the air. A portable air purifier is a smart investment for the kitchen and around the house.
House Plants
Indoor plants are not only for decoration. They also help to increase oxygen inside your home and purify the air. They do this by helping to filter the pollutants that originate from inside your home, including those from cleaning products, furniture, trash, carpets, natural gas, and more.
Routine Cleaning
Allergens like pet dander, dust, and chemical residue will settle on your home’s floors, in your carpets, and upon upholstery and other surfaces. A great way to improve your indoor air quality is to routinely clean your home. Be sure to vacuum and mop your floors regularly. A good vacuum cleaner and gentle cleaning solutions can help. Be sure to vacuum upholstered furniture and drapes as well. Establishing a regular routine for house cleaning will remove pollutants from your home and out of the air.
Air Quality Professionals
The EPA ranks indoor air pollution among the top five risks to public health. Improve the quality of the indoor air in your home and extend the life of your heating and cooling system with our indoor air quality products. We provide 100% customer satisfaction to our customers using quality equipment with superior service. Give us a call today and let us help you improve your home.