The Environmental Protection Agency or EPA states that indoor air quality, also known as IAQ, has been linked to many health issues. When indoor air quality is so polluted, it can induce conditions like asthma, respiratory issues, and heart problems. Along with the spring season comes unwanted allergy symptoms sparked by pollen and other contaminants. This seasonal change causes many people to try and get relief by staying indoors. However, did you know that indoor pollution can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor pollution? Thus making indoor air quality is an essential topic to discuss. So how exactly do you improve the IAQ in your home? Keep reading these tips from your Middletown Heating & Cooling family as we go over the aspects of indoor air quality.
What are the Pollutant Sources You Should be Aware of?
Being aware of common pollutants within the home is vital as you need to be able to recognize and remove the pollutant source as necessary. These pollutant sources include but are not limited to:
- Lead particles
- Building material (such as asbestos)
- Radon
- Nitrogen dioxide
- Second-hand smoke
- Mold or mildew
Pollutant sources can be organic and manufactured. Keep in mind pollutant sources don’t always affect every person in the home. So, while a pollutant may have adverse reactions on one individual, it may not affect another.
What Ways Can You Boost IAQ?
Depending on your need for the air quality issue you are experiencing, there are different solutions you can consider utilizing.
- How Do HVAC Air Filters Boost IAQ?
Your HVAC system’s air filters should be changed with fresh new ones every 30-60 days. This is a standard recommendation in the HVAC industry. Considering the air filter’s main job is to trap loose dust particles and allergens floating in the air, it makes sense. The last thing you want is a clogged air filter, hindering your HVAC system from running at its best capacity.
- How Does a Smart Thermostat Boost IAQ?
Most smart thermostats have a feature that monitors the IAQ levels in the home. This is
super helpful for many homeowners. This feature works by frequently measuring the indoor air quality, and in this case, it picks up a negative IAQ reading. It then communicates with your HVAC system leading the fan to be turned on automatically. Then fresh air is circulated throughout the house, while the stale air gets directed back to the return ducts. Perhaps you don’t have a smart thermostat installed, but would like to discuss your options. If so, we are more than happy to assist you!
- How Will a Humidifier Boost IAQ?
A humidifier is a great thing to utilize during the winter. During the winter season, it is natural for the level of humidity to be lowered in the air. As a result, when moisture is significantly low, it causes short-term side effects such as dry skin, chapped lips, nose bleeds, breathing issues, or sleeping problems. So if you or someone in your home is dealing with any of these uncomfortable side effects, try using a humidifier to boost your home’s IAQ.
- How Will a Dehumidifier Boost IAQ?
If dry air isn’t an issue for you, but excessive moisture in your home is, you may want to consider investing in a dehumidifier. Between 30%-50% is the recommended humidity level you want to maintain in your home. If your air is overly moisturized, a dehumidifier will resolve this issue for you and bring the IAQ back to a healthy level.
- How Does the iWave-R Boost IAQ?
The iWave-R is a whole-home air purification system that recreates nature’s way of purifying the air. Its use of negative and positive ions filters the air within your home, keeping it fresh and pure round the clock. This is a fantastic option for those with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory-related conditions. If this seems like it might be a good fit for your home and family, call us today, and we can answer any questions you may have.
Middletown Heating & Cooling want the best for you, your home, and your family! When it comes to our customers’ health and well-being, that is one of our top priorities! Raising the indoor air quality inside your home does not have to be a daunting task. We are here to help lighten the load and offer our expertise and service as we partner with you for all of your HVAC concerns. You can reach us at (513) 268-3789 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!