Improving the indoor air quality during the seasons when you can't open windows helps you feel more comfortable. Don't wait until your HVAC system breaks to service it. Always replace the filters when you need to and get an expert's help if there's an odd smell coming from your unit.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, many people in the United States spend about 90% of their time indoors. You should be paying more attention to the quality of indoor air when you spend that much time in your house with the windows closed.
Figure out what you can do to keep pollutants from building up.
Is There a Way to Check Indoor Air Quality?
Yes. Once you get a basic indoor air monitor, you can use it to keep an eye on:
- Particulate matter
- Carbon dioxide levels
- Temperature and humidity
Consider paying for air quality testing services too. These can help you figure out which pollutant is affecting the quality of the air.
What Causes Poor Indoor Air Quality?
Having a lot of smoke, dust, and pet dander in your home. If there is some construction work going on in your neighborhood, the dust may get into your home. Always ensure fresh air is flowing in to push out the stale air.
HVAC Habits to Boost Indoor Air Quality
Don't just take good care of your HVAC system when you need it to heat or cool your home. You'll notice a huge difference in indoor air quality when you start following a better maintenance routine.
Always Keep Your HVAC Filter Clean
Your HVAC filters will start allowing less air to get into your home if they have a lot of buildup. Check them regularly so you can know when you need a new one. Try to follow the schedule recommended for your equipment and filter type too.
If you have pets in your home or allergies, it's better to replace the filters more often.
You might be tempted to buy the thickest filter because you often forget to put in new ones. These might not be suitable for your system. Getting filters designed for your HVAC system ensures it works as it should.
Schedule Professional HVAC Services
When you wait for your HVAC system to fail before calling an expert, you might end up with costly repairs. Servicing it frequently helps it work well throughout different seasons. Consider asking a technician to:
- Inspect your unit for any signs of damage
- Test if your HVAC has proper airflow
- Recommend other indoor air pollution solutions you can use with your HVAC
You shouldn't be letting small maintenance issues cause your home to feel uncomfortable. After getting HVAC services at KD Mechanical, you'll have peace of mind. You can worry less about breathing in pollutants or your system breaking down when you need it most.
Give Your HVAC System Enough Airflow
Blocked vents will only make your HVAC system work harder. When you're checking the air quality, go through your home to check if any of these are blocking the supply and return vents:
- Furniture
- Curtains
- Rugs
- Storage boxes
You should also check your outdoor HVAC unit. When leaves and other debris build up near it, there won't be a free flow of air. Once you trim the nearby plants and shrubs, you'll create more room.
Some spaces in your home will start feeling stuffy because they aren't getting enough fresh air when your HVAC is running. Inspect the vents in there for signs of blockage. Moving furniture a few inches away from them may improve the air quality.
Don't Ignore Strange HVAC Smells
Your HVAC system shouldn't have a recurring burning smell. It may be a sign of an electrical issue that also puts you at risk.
An air purifier installation can help you fix the issue if it is being caused by microscopic air pollutants. However, you should avoid masking the smells using air fresheners without first figuring out what's causing them.
Turning your HVAC system off when it has a burning odor also avoids costly damage. After repairing it, you'll address safety issues and still enjoy better home comfort.
Check for Moisture Problems
Your HVAC system helps control humidity. If the level builds up, your home will be damp and create conditions where mold thrives
Before you spend money on a new HVAC system, check if you have any leaks making your unit work harder than it should. You can also add a dehumidifier in areas with a lot of excess moisture, like:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Basements
Even if dehumidifiers are helpful, don't use them to avoid repairing a leak in your home. Fixing the issue causing excess humidity first is always the smart move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cooking Affect Indoor Air Quality?
Yes. When you fry things at high temperatures, it can cause smoke and grease particles to build up in your home. Using your kitchen exhaust fan helps you remove these.
Leave it running for a few more minutes after cooking instead of turning it off immediately. You'll prevent grease and food particles from landing on other items and causing bad smells.
Do Carpets Hold Indoor Air Pollutants?
Yes. If you don't vacuum your carpet frequently, it will hold on to pollutants. The particles will end up in the air every time someone walks on it.
As you vacuum, spend more time on the areas you frequently walk on and where your pets like to hang out. Ensure you also clean spills immediately. Waiting for them to dry on their own can cause foul smells and mold growth.
Will an Old HVAC System Affect Air Quality?
Not automatically. Once your HVAC system goes past its lifespan, the parts may no longer be effective. It might also have an outdated filtration system.
Check if your HVAC system is due for a replacement and start looking for modern units.
Enjoying Better Indoor Air Quality
Your indoor air quality doesn't have to make you feel uncomfortable when you're spending more hours at home. Check if your filters are clean and ensure nothing is blocking your vents.
Installing air purifiers can also be quite helpful when you have high levels of pollutants. Get more weather and home comfort guides on our page.
This article was prepared by an independent contributor and helps us continue to deliver quality news and information.
