Improving air quality can be an endless quest for homeowners, but with these actionable tips, you’ll be able to enjoy cleaner, fresher air with every breath. It’s hard to miss poor air quality, but it can be a challenge figuring out exactly what’s causing it.
In some cases, people don’t realize they have a problem because their home doesn’t carry an odor, but they are frequently experiencing cold-like or allergy symptoms such as sniffling, a runny nose, and watery eyes.
These suggestions will help you pinpoint common sources of indoor air pollution and teach you how to fix them.
Have a Professional Duct Cleaning
If your ducts have never been cleaned or your ductwork is old, it may be filled with dirt, dust or even mold. Mold that grows in ducts is carried through your HVAC unit and carried into your home, where spores are inhaled. Mold irritation can cause a wide range of respiratory problems as well as general sickness.
Another benefit to duct cleaning is the inspection that comes along with it. When a professional enters your system to assess the level of pollution, they will also be able to determine whether or not there are any cracks, holes, or leaks that are contributing to the problem.
Change Your Air Filter and Get a Tune-up
Your HVAC air filter should be cleaned every 30 to 90 days depending on the model. A dirty air filter not only exposes your family to more allergens, but it will also cause your system to work harder.
Breakdowns, higher energy bills, and reduced airflow can all be side-effects of a dirty air filter. Other common issues that can lead to full-scale repairs are caught through preventative maintenance and seasonal tune-ups. If you catch a problem ahead of time, you’ll be able to save money and improve your air quality in the process.
Avoid Chemical Cleaners
If you clean your home with chemical products like bleach, consider some alternatives like white vinegar and baking soda. They’re just as effective but they diminish the release of odorless toxins called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that irritate your eyes and throat.
Improve Your Ventilation System
Make sure that none of your home’s vents are blocked by furniture. You may also want to consider installing a home ventilation system or upgrading your current model. Better ventilation reduces the risk of mold growth, helps remove toxins and allows air to circulate more effectively.
Heated and cooled air may not be evenly distributed throughout your home without proper ventilation; a better ventilation system can also improve the effectiveness of your HVAC.
To learn more about HVAC maintenance and how you can improve your indoor air quality, contact Anton’s Air Conditioning & Heating at (314) 582-0745 today! We offer complete HVAC repair, maintenance, and replacement throughout St. Louis. Schedule an appointment and get one step closer to comfort today!
