If you’re uncertain whether your Huntsville residence has unhealthy indoor air quality (IAQ), it possibly does.
We spend much of our time indoors. In reality, we’re inside up to 90% of the time, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. And the air inside homes could be 2–5 times more contaminated than outdoors, which may create long-term health problems.
Most Common Origins of Bad IAQ
We’ve put together a list of the most frequent causes of inferior IAQ, the problems they cause and how you can take care of these indoor air pollutants. If you’re troubled by the air inside your residence, we suggest consulting with a pro like All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc about which products are a good fit for your home.
Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are chemicals emitted from everyday household products.
They’re found in paint and stains along with:
- Furniture
- Carpet
- Building materials
- Cleaning products
- Cosmetics
- Air fresheners
- Candles
When these vapors build up indoors, they might irritate your eyes, nose and throat. They might also lead to headaches and nausea. Regardless of whether your house is in a rural or industrial location, an EPA study found indoor levels of these pollutants can be 2–5 times greater than the air outside your home.
Always use the manufacturer’s guidelines when using paint or cleaning supplies. Unlatching a window can help vapors dissipate more rapidly.
Air purification systems can also better your air. This system partners with your heating and cooling equipment to freshen indoor air. When seeking a model, check that it’s specifically made to eradicate VOCs.
Dust and Pet Dander
Dust and pet dander can aggravate health problems like asthma and allergies, especially when it continually gets moved by your house’s heating and cooling equipment. While you can vacuum more frequently and get an enhanced air filter, an air filtration system might be a better solution.
This solution connects with your heating and cooling unit to deliver strong filtration. Some types have hospital-grade filtration for eliminating particles and bioaerosols.
Persistent Odors
Newer homes are securely sealed to boost energy efficiency. While this is fantastic for your utility bill, it’s not very good for your IAQ.
Musty odors can stay around for an extended amount of time since your home is pulling in reduced fresh air. As keeping your windows open all the time isn’t a possibility, here are two ways you can make your indoor air smell cleaner.
An air purification system is placed in your ductwork to wipe out odors before they recirculate. Search for one with a carbon filter and the capability to wipe out dangerous VOCs. These systems can also help keep your household healthy by wiping out most bacteria and common allergy triggers like pollen and mold spores.
A ventilation system removes musty indoor air and substitutes it with fresh outdoor air. There are two models of equipment (heat recovery and energy recovery), so call our specialists for more info on which kind is best for your house.
Unbalanced Humidity
It’s essential your house’s humidity stays balanced. Air that’s too moist can lead to mold, while dry air can cause respiratory issues.
Our specialists suggest 40–50% for ideal comfort. To keep yours in balance, think about buying a whole-home humidifier or whole-home dehumidifier with your heating and cooling unit.
Instead of having to lug a humidifier from room to room, this solution delivers even humidity throughout your home.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is colorless gas you can’t smell. It’s caused by incomplete combustion in fuel-burning appliances, like gas heating systems, water heaters or fireplaces.
It causes a severe health risk. In small levels, it can lead to flu-like symptoms like headaches and nausea. It may be deadly in large levels.
We suggest yearly furnace maintenance to double-check your system is working smoothly. This service allows our techs to find troubles before they begin, including malfunctions that can cause carbon monoxide leaks.
The best method to keep your residence free of carbon monoxide is to install detectors. These alarms need to be on all floors near bedrooms and living areas.
Enhance Your House’s Air Quality with the All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc Professionals
Informed that your residence has inferior air quality but not sure how to make it better? Or unsure which solution is right for you? Give our kind HVAC experts a call at 256-801-4701 or contact us online now. With free estimates and pro service, we’ll help you find the best solution for your home and budget.