The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that poor indoor air quality (IAQ) may have serious health effects including headaches, fatigue, heart disease, cancer and asthma attacks. Breaking these common habits can restore your IAQ and make your home in Fort Thomas, KY more comfortable.
1. Not Airing Out Your Space
Many household products, such as paint, cleaners, disinfectants, fuel, candles, air fresheners and pesticides, may offgas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can pollute your indoor air. Using these products without ventilation could cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, organ damage or allergic reactions.
One solution is switching to eco-friendlier, naturally derived alternatives. However, that’s not always feasible, so the next best thing is to make sure your space is well-ventilated when you use things like cleaning supplies; that way, the VOCs don’t linger in your home’s air supply.
2. Letting Your Air Filter Get Dirty
Over time, your air filter accumulates dirt, dust and pollutants. Clogged air filters block the airflow, forcing the HVAC system to work harder and circulating contaminated air through the house. Change your filter regularly to keep your air clean and fresh.
3. Neglecting Routine Maintenance
Professional maintenance catches small issues before they ruin your air quality. HVAC experts perform tune-ups, repair broken components and keep your furnace running smoothly, increasing its efficiency. This is particularly valuable if any household members have asthma or allergies.
4. Blocking Ventilation
Poor overall ventilation may trap particles inside your residence. Temporarily opening windows and doors, like we recommended when using cleaning supplies, can help. However, there are times when you won’t be able to open your windows, such as during severe temperature shifts or inclement weather.
To combat this, check your house for blocked air vents, then open any closed vents and remove nearby obstacles. Also, you can install exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom to improve airflow.
If you’re having IAQ issues, contact Western Hills Heating and Air Conditioning to discuss our indoor air quality services. We may perform an inspection and recommend products and services, such as air purifiers and ventilators, that reduce air pollution.
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