With summer on the horizon, a priority is to maintain the comfort and safety of your abode. One component of comfort in any home that is too often neglected is indoor air quality. The indoor air quality can slip within a few hours, as windows are kept shut to keep the lower-temperature air inside and the high-temperature air outside, and that can cause discomfort and trigger allergies and even respiratory issues. The good news is that there are things you can do this summer to improve the air quality in your home. Whether you’re facing straightforward DIY chores or seeking professional services, it’s important to stay on top of maintaining clean and healthy air.

Invest in Regular Maintenance 

Your HVAC system makes a massive impact on the air quality and comfort of your home, particularly during the sweltering summer months. An optimally functioning HVAC system circulates and filters air to snuff out common irritants like dust, pollen, and other pollutants from recirculating indoors. Regular servicing is essential to keep your system in tip-top condition. If you could not schedule a maintenance check-up recently, now would be a good time to contact an HVAC repair Seattle professional to check and clean your unit. Cleaning or replacing the air filters, checking refrigerant levels, and making sure all airflow is where it needs to be will not only keep your system in working order but your home’s air quality at optimal levels.

Replace Air Filters Regularly

One of the most important factors contributing to indoor air quality is air. These filers help catch dust, dirt, pet dander, and other airborne particles that might otherwise circulate in your home. However, over time, these filters get clogged, which diminishes their effectiveness. Change the air filters on your HVAC system every 1-3 months, especially during peak seasons such as summer. Those who have allergies or pets might consider high-efficiency particulate air filters for even better filtration.

Options to Improve the Filtration

Aside from the built-in filtration of your HVAC system, you could buy separate air purifiers for individual rooms. These devices work to purify the air in selected spaces in your home to help eliminate airborne allergens, pollutants, and other particles that could hang around. Air purifiers are very effective in improving indoor air quality. If you use air purifiers, put them in high-traffic areas like the living room or bedrooms, where air quality matters most. This will guarantee a steady supply of proper air, i.e. when the windows and doors are closed to shut the summer heat out.

Ventilate Your Home Properly

Though the summer heat tempts us to keep windows and doors closed, ample ventilation is critical to avoid the buildup of pollutants. And if there are bathrooms or kitchens, consider turning on exhaust fans to get rid of moisture and humidity as this too can trigger mold growth. And if you have a home ventilation system, like an HRV or ERV, make sure it’s working and maintained. These systems bring the fresh air in from the outside, and exhaust out the stale air, thus ensuring the entire home is being ventilated evenly.

Control Humidity Levels

It can also lead to poor indoor air quality and mold/mildew growth causing allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Humidity levels increase in the air during summer—so keeping the humidity levels in control within your house is a must! Purchase a dehumidifier for places such as the basement or bathrooms, where moisture may settle. The ideal indoor humidity level for comfort and air quality for your home is between 30% and 50%. Also, if your HVAC system has a built-in humidifier or dehumidifier, as part of your HVAC repair Seattle service, get it checked and maintained to make sure it’s working efficiently.

Use Natural Cleaning Products

Many conventional cleaning products include harsh chemicals that can reduce indoor air quality. These chemicals can remain in the air long after you’ve completed your cleaning, potentially worsening respiratory issues or triggering headaches. Use nontoxic, environmentally friendly cleaning products. You can create your cleaning solutions using ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. Not only will this help purify your air, but it’s also a safer alternative for families with children and pets.

Reduce the Use of Scented Candles and Air Fresheners

Although scented candles and air fresheners may make your home smell nice, many contain synthetic fragrances and chemicals that can harm the quality of the air in your home. These products can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can lead to headaches, dizziness, and lung irritation. Consider natural substitutes, like diffusing essential oils or setting out bowls of dried herbs throughout your home. These natural alternatives offer pleasant and fresh scents, while also not compromising the air quality.

Reduce Dusting in Your House

Maintaining clean air indoors requires regular cleaning. Common allergens such as dust, dirt, and pet dander can settle on furniture, carpets, and flooring, all of which contribute to poor air quality inside the home. Dust and vacuum at home regularly, especially around tricky spots such as air vents and baseboards. If you use a vacuum cleaner, use a HEPA vacuum cleaner to trap in as many allergens as you can. Wash bedding, curtains, and pet bedding often to keep dust and dander from accumulating.

Indoor air quality is now more important than ever, but with summer right around the corner, the need for improved air quality in your home is only going to continue to grow. By keeping your HVAC system well-maintained, regularly replacing air filters, controlling humidity levels, and minimizing the amount of pollutants in your home, you can make sure that the air inside your home stays clean all season long. If you do not remember having your HVAC checked, contact an HVAC repair Seattle professional, get your system ready for the summer, and also help keep the air in your home clean and breathable.

Published by HOLR Magazine