5 Ways to Keep Your Indoor Air Clean

The air in your home or office might be more polluted than you realize. Indoor air has been found to be more polluted that outdoor air — even more than 100 times more polluted. Some of this pollution does come from outside, but a lot of it is generated indoors. Considering the potential impact on health, it is very important that you actively seek to keep your indoor air free of contaminants.

Ensure Your HVAC System is Efficient

Your HVAC system does more than just heat and cool your home — it can impact your indoor air quality positively or negatively. An efficient HVAC system will effectively circulate air throughout your home. Your system’s air filter will remove pollutants as they pass through, and this is only possible if the filter is clean. A clogged or dirty filter will not effectively allow clean air to pass through. You should clean or replace your filter regularly, especially during periods of extensive use such as the peak of summer or the heart of the cold season.

Your HVAC system can easily become dirty and a breeding ground for bacteria and other pollutants. It is very important to keep all areas including the ductwork clean. Dirt in any area of the system easily ends up in your indoor air. Regular maintenance is one way to ensure your system receives the care it needs. Maintenance will also reveal damage to equipment such as the furnace, which can lead to leak of substances such as dangerous carbon monoxide.

Fix Leaks

Leaks from windows or doors can allow contaminants to enter your indoor air. Some of these are easy fixes if you like home improvement tasks. Weatherstripping and caulk will effectively get rid of cracks or gaps in windows or doors.

Leaky ducts not only affect air quality, they can also result in energy loss. Contact Climate Master Mechanical Contractors, Inc. today to have your ducts checked. Our HVAC technicians will also be able to locate and repair any leaks throughout the ductwork.

Avoid Harmful Chemicals

Insect repellents and household cleaners, for example, can contain harmful chemicals. Some of these substances can be dangerous if inhaled and quite toxic if ingested. These products, along with furnishings, contain volatile organic compounds(VOCs). If they must be used, carefully follow instructions for use and storage. Alternatively, look for products that are made from natural or environmentally-friendly substances.

Be Diligent About Cleaning

Keep a lid on your garbage, and be sure to remove it from indoors as soon as possible. Garbage quickly emits a foul odor which easily spreads throughout your home. Thoroughly clean kitchen surfaces to get rid of food odors. Have a regular cleaning routine to help to keep your indoor air clean and fresh. That involves thorough dusting and vacuuming to get rid of pollutants such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. If you used your ceiling fan to help with cooling this summer, be sure to clean the blades as they quickly accumulate dust which will circulate through the air as soon as the fan is turned on again.

Professional Indoor Air Quality Assessment

There can be many dangers lurking in your air that you cannot see or smell, or that might be located in areas you cannot access. In addition, special equipment is often needed to detect harmful substances such as radon. Professional air quality testing is the most effective way for you to be able to identify and adequately address indoor air quality threats.

Poor indoor air is not a matter to be taken lightly. It can result in symptoms that range from minor skin, ear, nose and throat irritation, to more serious problems such as chronic asthma and lung cancer. Problems with indoor air are not just limited to your home, your workplace, and other buildings also present threats to your health.

Contact Climate Master Mechanical Contractors, Inc. for Your IAQ Solutions

Poor indoor air quality also affects the performance of your HVAC system and can even lead to higher energy bills. Dirt and other debris that are not removed will reenter the system and affect the free movement of mechanical parts. When your HVAC system has to work harder to provide the right level of air conditioning, more energy will be consumed.

Indoor air quality problems can be remedied, but it is important that you take action as soon as possible. Contact your indoor air quality experts, Climate Master Mechanical Contractors, Inc. today at 708-597-5470 to ensure your home or office is safe and comfortable for everyone. We also provide other services and systems that further enhance indoor air quality. Call and schedule an appointment today!

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