5 Tips for Better Indoor Air Quality

When you think about pollution, the air inside your home is probably not the first thing to come to mind. Few people worry about how safe the air is inside their home. But the truth is, indoor air can get just as polluted as outdoor air. And with the average American spending approximately 87% of their life indoors, it is important to make sure the air quality in your home is safe. Part of that involves regular furnace repair in Los Gatos, CA, and there are a few other things you can do as well.

Common Air Pollutants

Some indoor air contaminants get brought in from the outdoors, like dirt, pollen, and exhaust. Another common pollutant is carbon monoxide which results from escaping natural gas in the home. And in kitchens and bathrooms where humidity is high, mold can produce spores that pollute the air.

Tips for Better Indoor Air

Now that you know where pollutants come from, here are a few immediate steps you can take to improve the air quality inside your home.

1. Change Your Air Filters Often

The HVAC system works constantly to keep the home at the perfect temperature. And while the systems cycle the air, it pulls through different sets of filters to help protect the mechanics of the heating and cooling systems. These filters get clogged and can restrict airflow. They can also push pollutants back into the air when they are dirty. So it is important, especially during seasons of peak use, that you check your air filters often and replace them when they get clogged. Not sure if your filter qualifies as too dirty? Hold it up to the sunlight and if light can’t pass through, then you need a new filter.

2. Check the Ductwork

The air ducts distribute the air throughout the home. They are what make it possible to have a comfortable temperature in every room. But if ducts are not installed properly or well-maintained, it could result in pollutants circulating throughout the home.

3. Regularly Vacuum Carpets and Rugs

One of the best ways to keep the air in your home clean is by keeping the rest of your house clean too. This means regularly vacuuming the floors in your home and dusting the furniture. This will help cut down on the pollutants circulating in the air.

4. Use Exhaust Vents to Remove Humidity and Cooking Fumes

While cooking it is important to turn on the exhaust fans in your kitchen. This will help reduce humidity and cooking fumes. It will also circulate the air and push the stale, greasy air out of your home.

5. Control Humidity Levels

Another thing you can do to improve the air quality in your home is to monitor the humidity levels. Humid air can lead to mold growth and cause problems with spores in the home that could be hazardous.

Improving the air quality in the home will go a long way toward improving the health and well-being of all the occupants. Part of that involves keeping up to date on furnace repair in Los Gatos, CA. Routine checks and tune-ups will help the furnace run cleanly and efficiently for years to come.