The quality of the air inside your home is an important factor for your health and comfort, especially if you spend a lot of time indoors. Poor indoor air quality can cause or worsen respiratory problems, allergies, asthma, headaches, fatigue, and other symptoms.
One of the main sources of indoor air pollution can be the HVAC system, which can circulate dust, mold, bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants throughout your home or office. Fortunately, you can improve the quality of your indoor air by maintaining and upgrading your HVAC system.
Here are some tips to help you breathe easier and enjoy a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
Air filters are designed to capture particles and pollutants from the air before they enter your HVAC system and your living space. However, over time, they can get clogged and reduce the airflow and efficiency of your system. They can also become a breeding ground for microbes and release them back into the air.
To prevent this, you should change your disposable one-inch air filters at least every three months, or more often if you have pets, allergies, or a dusty environment. If you have a high-efficiency filter, you should be able to go a bit longer between filter changes.
When selecting replacement filters, choose high-quality filters with a high minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating. This rating indicates how well they capture small particles.
The ducts and vents of your HVAC system can also accumulate dust, debris, and contaminants over time, affecting your air quality and your system's performance. To keep them clean, you should vacuum them regularly with a soft-bristled attachment and wipe them with a damp cloth.
You should also inspect them for any signs of damage, leaks, or mold growth. In addition, be sure to repair or replace them as needed. If you notice a lot of dirt or mold in your ducts, you may want to hire a professional to thoroughly clean them and remove any hidden contaminants.
Another way to improve the quality of your home's air is to add an air purifier or dehumidifier to your HVAC system. An air purifier is a device that uses various methods to remove pollutants from the air, such as filters, ultraviolet (UV) light, ionizers, or ozone generators. An air purifier can help reduce allergens, odors, smoke, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances from your indoor air.
A dehumidifier is a device that removes moisture from the air, allowing you to live without excessive dampness or condensation. You won’t have to worry about mold or mildew growth, respiratory illnesses, or weird smells that come from dampness. Instead, you’ll get cleaner, drier air.
You should choose an air purifier or dehumidifier that is compatible with your HVAC system. Moreover, it should have enough capacity to cover your indoor space.
Finally, one of the best ways to improve your air quality and your HVAC system's performance is to schedule regular maintenance with a qualified technician. A professional can inspect your system for any issues, clean and lubricate the components, check the refrigerant level and pressure, test the thermostat and controls, and make any necessary adjustments or repairs.
Regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your system, lower your energy bills, prevent breakdowns and malfunctions, and ensure optimal indoor comfort and air quality.
You can improve the quality of your indoor air by maintaining or upgrading your HVAC system. A well-functioning HVAC system can not only keep you cool in summer and warm in winter but also provide you with fresh and clean air to breathe all year round.
To schedule maintenance for your HVAC system, contact A-1 Finchum Heating and Cooling. We can help you breathe easier.
