3 Factors That Contribute to Indoor Air Quality
Sneezing fits, coughing spells, and other cold-like symptoms your family experiences could be triggered by the quality of air inside your house. Knowing what kinds of microscopic particles and contaminants are floating around indoor living spaces can help you take the appropriate steps to mitigate respiratory irritation and other negative side effects. The following guide outlines how you can work with a HVAC repair technician to take additional steps to purify indoor air and keep your household healthy.
What Impacts Indoor Air Quality?
1. Dust, Dirt, & Pollen Brought In From Outside
After playing in the yard, kids often track dust, dirt, and pollen through the house on the bottoms of shoes. Pets also transfer particles from their fur and paws to furniture and flooring.
When settled dust on surfaces is disturbed, the microscopic substances can become airborne. To minimize how much grime is brought into your house, put down mats at front and back doors so people can wipe off their shoes. You can also have visitors put their footwear in cubbyholes in a garage or entry hall. Keep a towel near the door so you can wipe down pets before they come inside, as well.
2. Frequency of HVAC Filter Changes
The filter system in your heating and cooling system traps dust, pet dander, and additional particles sucked into vents and ductwork. This prevents the allergens from recirculating throughout indoor air.
Check and change or clean your filter system every 60 to 90 days or more frequently if you have pets. Without frequent replacement or cleaning, the filter system will become too clogged to catch any additional contaminants, and the particles will flow back into living spaces instead. In addition, the efficiency of your heating and cooling system will be reduced. In humid conditions, bacteria, mold, and dust mites can also thrive on dirty filters and waft back into the house. An HVAC repair technician can inspect the system for fungal growth.
3. Chemicals & Gases Released From Household Products
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases found in various products commonly used in households. Formaldehyde is used to make drapes and foam insulation, benzene is found in air fresheners, and ethylene glycol is an ingredient in paint.
Short-term exposure to VOCs can cause headaches and dizziness, while liver, kidney, and central nervous system problems are among some long-term effects. Limit your exposure to these gases by having an HVAC contractor install an activated carbon air purifier. The filter removes these compounds and odors through adsorption—the adhesion of atoms, ions, or molecules from a gas, liquid, or dissolved solid to a surface. This makes living spaces safer and more comfortable.
Ensure your family can breathe easier at home and turn to the heating and air conditioning contractors at Vashon Heating & Cooling for expert service. These licensed HVAC repair technicians boast over 35 years of experience serving customers throughout King County and Vashon, WA. They can perform indoor air quality assessments and provide ventilation system upkeep, humidity control installation, or additional solutions based on their findings. Learn more about their HVAC services online, and call
(206) 463-1777 to receive an estimate.