Handwashing doesn’t always prevent sickness from spreading in your family. Poor indoor air quality greatly affects the overall health of your family, increasing your risk of sickness, allergies and infections. There are a few ways you can increase your indoor air quality while creating a comfortable and healthy environment for your family.
#1 – Humidity Levels
Maintaining a healthy humidity level in your home is the easiest way to improve your indoor air quality. The recommended humidity level for your home is between 30% and 50%. When humidity is kept in check, mold growth and dust mites traveling in your air are reduced. The allergens produced from certain molds easily trigger adverse health issues, such as allergic reactions and asthma attacks. Suggestions for reducing excess moisture in your home:
- Install a whole-home dehumidifier to work with your current HVAC system
- Open a window when drying clothes to help ventilate moisture
- Empty your air conditioner drip pans to reduce moisture build up in your unit and
- Check for water leaks in your home.
#2 – Improved Ventilation
You can reduce indoor pollutants by improving the ventilation throughout your home. Most heating and cooling systems don’t bring fresh air indoors, so opening windows and doors brings in the necessary air circulation you need. Utilizing exhaust fans in your bathrooms, kitchen and other high-moisture areas will reduce humidity and move the air in those rooms.
You can also install a mechanical ventilation system to work with your heating and cooling system. Ventilation systems are designed to pull fresh air in and release stale air from inside your home, creating a healthier environment.
#3 – Air Filter Replacement
Air filters are your first line of defense against toxins in your indoor air. As allergens and other pollutants are pulled into your HVAC system and passed through the air filter, clean air is then circulated throughout your home via your air ducts. When the air filter is too dirty or clogged, it stops filtering out allergens from your home and instead leaves the air more contaminated.
When it’s time for you to change your filter, consider installing a high-efficiency filter. Consult Estes Services to find out what filter rating is appropriate for your home and existing HVAC system. Be advised, too much filtration power can actually hinder airflow, causing problems with your heating and cooling system. HEPA air cleaners may be an option for your home, providing 99% efficacy against the smallest pollutant particles.
Improve your indoor air quality to live healthier in your home. Contact Estes Services to schedule preventative maintenance. Our NATE-certified technicians will inspect your system, change the air filter and eliminate allergens, dust and debris trapped inside your unit.
