How Do I Know if I Have Indoor Quality Issues?
When is the last time you thought about your indoor air quality? Due to more energy efficiency and lower utility bills, most modern homes are airtight. This means that indoor and outdoor air do not merge unless you open a door or window. If you don't open your windows, your HVAC system must handle all your airflow and filtration. If not done right, it can result in poor indoor air quality and an increase in illnesses in your family.
Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality
- You have an increase in asthma or COPD symptoms.
- You see dust or dirt floating in your air.
- Your home smells musty or like mildew.
- You have allergy symptoms, regardless of the season.
- You feel better after you leave your home.
- You frequently wake up with headaches and sinus congestion.
- You feel hot and sticky or cold, depending on the season and your HVAC system is functioning.
Understanding What’s Causing Your Poor Indoor Air Quality
Your HVAC system filters and circulates your indoor air. Because of that, it’s a common cause of poor air quality. The number one way to improve your air quality is to change your air filter. Most homes need to change their air filters every three months. If you have pets or smoke, you’ll need to change your air filter every 30 days. This helps to catch and remove all the dust, dirt, pet dander and other things floating in your air.
The second cause of discomfort and poor indoor air quality in lack of humidity control. The humidity in your home can cause you to feel hot and sticky in the summer. It can also make you feel colder in the winter. High humidity contributes to mold, mildew and bacteria and virus growth. This can lead to more illnesses each year. Low humidity levels can make your sinuses feel dry. It can also dry out certain finishes in your home. This is especially true for furnishings and finishes on wood.
Correcting Poor Indoor Air Quality with Help from an HVAC Professional
You can fix poor indoor air quality with the help of an HVAC professional. Heating and cooling technicians can find the causes of your poor indoor air quality. They will recommend solutions, including better air filters that filter out small particles. They can also recommend the best humidifiers, dehumidifiers and air cleaners. These further improve your indoor comfort and the quality of your air. Once they install the right products in your home, you and your family will be more comfortable. You may also have fewer allergy symptoms. You can even save a few dollars on your heating and cooling costs.
To get maintenance on your heating and cooling system, give us a call at (630) 964-1700. We want you to enjoy great indoor air in your home. We can help you have fewer health problems caused by your HVAC system.
