What Affects My Indoor Air Quality
June 5, 2015
Here are just a few common things that can adversely affect your air quality:
- Outside contaminants – The biggest offender is the pollen and dirt that thrives outside. Every time you open your door or window, you invite these airborne particles in. Does this mean you should seal off your windows and doors to protect yourself? Absolutely not! Just focus on controlling these particles once they get inside your home.
- Your HVAC system – One of the most important reasons for scheduling a routine tune-up for your HVAC system is to make sure that you aren’t recycling airborne pollutants in your home. Another thing to look out for is microbial contamination in drip pans, coils and ducts. Don’t forget to get your ducts cleaned every once in a while, too!
- VOCs – VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are emitted from items commonly found in your house. They can be found in some paints, lacquers, paint thinners, some cleaning supplies, and many other products. Releasing high concentrations of VOCs into your home can have a negative impact on your health.
- Having carpet – Carpet can hang onto dust and airborne particle even after meticulous vacuuming. Although deep shag carpet feels great on bare feet, it can wreak havoc on your allergies. Rugs over hardwood floors are much easier to deep clean.
- Smoking – Pollutants from cigarette smoke lingers far after you are finished smoking. Even if you only smoke in one room in your home, it is almost impossible to trap all of the contaminants. Remember that unless you have zoning in your home, air ducts are connected throughout your home.
- Air filters – They are called air filters for a reason! Simply changing your filters every month can help cut down on the spread of pollen, dust, pet dander and a ton of common airborne materials.
Need help assessing you indoor air quality and how to improve it? Give us a call today!