It’s National Clean Air Month – which means it’s the perfect time to talk about indoor air quality (IAQ). The quality of air within our homes plays a crucial but often overlooked role in our comfort and health. Frequently ignored because it’s not immediately visible, we tend to overlook various aspects of indoor air quality until issues arise. Yet, the air we breathe is fundamental to sustaining our overall health. In this comprehensive guide, your LRF Maintenance, Heating, & Cooling professionals will discuss common mistakes made by homeowners that significantly degrade indoor air quality.
Forgetting Your Air Filter Replacements
Regularly changing your air filters may appear to be an insignificant task, but it is highly important in sustaining optimal indoor air quality (IAQ). Air filters serve as the primary barrier against airborne pollutants such as dust, pollen, animal fur, and other allergens in your home. When these filters become obstructed, airflow is not only impeded but the trapped pollutants may also be recirculated into your living space.
To address this, please consider the following recommendations:
- Adhere to manufacturer’s instructions – it is advisable to replace filters every 1 to 2 months, depending on variables such as filter type, pets, allergy concerns, and overall usage.
- Set up reminders – it is a good idea to examine your filters on a monthly basis. Utilizing calendar reminders can be an effective strategy for those who might overlook this task. By dedicating oneself to regular filter replacements, you will enhance airflow and improve the air quality within your dwelling.
Ignoring Moisture in Your Home
Getting a Whole-Home Dehumidifier: Excessive moisture within a home can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which is, of course, a concern for indoor air quality (IAQ). To mitigate the risks associated with indoor moisture, consider having a whole-home dehumidifier installed. Keep in mind that excessive moisture not only compromises comfort but can also adversely affect respiratory health. If you are uncertain of how to begin addressing this issue or have any other questions about whole-home dehumidifiers, we are here to offer guidance and support.
Allowing Persistent Odors to Stuff Up Your Home
In-home odors are a natural result of everyday life. Although it’s nothing to be ashamed of, letting odor accumulate will still stuff up your home and lower your indoor air quality. You can address these odors and their source pollutants by:
Opting for a Whole-Home Air Purifier: Investing in a whole-home air purifier, designed to integrate seamlessly with your HVAC system, can significantly reduce odors and airborne contaminants. We specifically recommend the iWave-R, an air-purifying device known for its efficacy in reducing allergens and neutralizing bacteria and germs. On top of that, its self-cleaning feature adds to the convenience of this nifty device, requiring minimal maintenance from homeowners aside from the initial installation.
Implementing UV Lights: UV lights can be installed to function alongside your HVAC system, ideally within air ducts or air handlers, to eradicate airborne bacteria and pollutants effectively. On the bright side, UV light bulbs are notably low maintenance, as they usually only require a bulb replacement about every 2-3 years. And the best thing is this task can be easily managed by your HVAC technician during your annual maintenance visits.
Your residence serves as your sanctuary – your own personal domain where safety and comfort should be paramount. Fostering such an environment is crucial to achieve a relaxing and tranquil space. Through meticulous attention to detail and the adoption of proactive strategies, one can markedly enhance the indoor air quality (IAQ) of their home.
Let us help guide you as you embark on your air quality journey! Call LRF Maintenance, Heating & Cooling today at (614) 837-4822, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!