Your Bloomingdale, GA home may look and smell clean, but you may be making choices that impact your indoor air quality (IAQ). Here are five things many homeowners do that can have a negative impact.
Not Changing the Air Filter
Your HVAC system’s filter removes particulates from the air that passes through it, which protects your system’s components and can help improve your IAQ. As your furnace and air conditioner run, eventually, the filter will become full of those particulates.
Most filters need changing every 30 to 90 days, depending on their condition and the air quality within your home. Not changing your filter regularly can result in a dirty filter restricting your system’s airflow and failing to clean what air does pass through it.
Skipping Whole-House Air Purification
Air purification devices can remove particulate matter from your indoor air, but many people go without them, thinking that their HVAC system will take care of it. Air purifiers can clean your air better than your HVAC system on its own.
Small, portable air purifiers are great for individual areas, but your HVAC system will circulate the contaminated air from the rest of the house. Whole-house purifiers, though, can remove the particulates in all areas of the home and provide you with much higher air quality.
Using Products With VOCs
Many homeowners use products that contain chemicals that produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This includes cleaning products, air fresheners, beauty products and fragrances. The chemicals that off-gas from these products can impact your IAQ.
Smoking
If you or someone in your home smokes, this greatly impacts your indoor air quality. Harmful substances like nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde and benzene will circulate and can cause health problems.
Lack of Ventilation and Circulation
Maintaining a healthy exchange of air between your home’s interior and the outside is important. You can do this by using exhaust fans in your bathroom or kitchen. There is also ventilation equipment that a professional can install to promote circulation and air exchange.
If you fail to ventilate, contaminants can build up in your air. Opening windows and doors can also help when the quality of the air outside is at a safe level.
Making healthier choices with your indoor air quality in mind can protect your health and well-being. Contact McDevitt Air in Bloomingdale, GA to schedule an appointment with our team so we can address the quality of your indoor air.
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