If you struggle with respiratory issues like asthma, allergies or colds, then you may be concerned with your indoor air quality. Interest tends to surge in Bay Minnette AL as spring pollen counts rise, but quality issues in your home environment should be a year-round interest. There are several steps you can take to improve the air in your home. Additionally, you need to know when to contact an HVAC professional for assistance.
Know How Your Home Affects Your Air Quality
Indoor conditions tend to be more polluted than outdoor conditions. Most homes are sealed tightly, an important factor when considering efficient use of HVAC equipment. Insulation can save a lot of money when the heater or air conditioner is running, but if dirt and dust get caught in your system it can also cause the pollutants in a home to become concentrated.
Evaluating Air Quality in Your Home
You may suspect the presence of certain pollutants in your airstream. Mold is common in our humid climate. Pollen and dust are common during the spring months. Cold and flu germs are prevalent throughout the winter. However, there are additional materials to think about. These include:
Second-hand smoke
Cooking materials like fine flour and sprays
Air freshener
Laundry detergent and fabric softener
Pet dander
Automobile emissions
Carbon monoxide
A professional evaluation includes taking air samples to provide specific information about materials present in your home. This information can be used to determine beneficial steps for improving indoor conditions.
Selecting HVAC Equipment to Address Issues
One of the simplest ways you can improve quality in your airstream is selecting a high-efficiency air filter. A new filter should be installed before you use your air conditioner for the summer and before you use your heater for the winter. Look for MERV ratings of up to 12 for a residential system. If you exceed 12, you could have problems with a pressure drop. Look also for sturdy construction so that you don’t have to worry about your filter collapsing and becoming ineffective.
An air purifier can provide the ability to capture and kill viruses, bacteria and mold. This is helpful for those whose health is particularly affected by allergies and illnesses. It’s important to have professional assistance in your selection and installation of a unit so that pressure issues aren’t created in your HVAC system.
The Role of Seasonal Maintenance in Indoor Air Quality
Your HVAC equipment includes several hidden areas that can harbor dirt, bacteria and mold spores. Pre-season tune-ups in the spring and fall can address these issues while improving the performance of your system. Coils and condensate pans are cleaned, eliminating materials that can affect indoor air circulation. Your ducts are inspected as well, and recommendations for sealing or cleaning may be made if mold, dirt or leaks are detected. UV lamps may be recommended for keeping mold growth under control at your coils. Action Heating & Air Conditioning is recognized as a Bryant Factory Authorized Dealer, and we provide you with excellent HVAC services and equipment options for keeping pollutants in your home under control.
Learn how to improve indoor air quality here.
