Indoor air quality is a crucial aspect of overall home comfort and health, yet it’s often overlooked by many homeowners. HVAC experts have observed several common mistakes that can degrade a home’s air quality.
As one of the trusted HVAC contractors in the area, Perfect Degree HVAC shares six common mistakes you should recognize and address to create a healthier living environment.
1. Not Changing Air Filters Frequently Enough
One of the most frequent errors is neglecting to replace HVAC air filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Air filters trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. However, a clogged filter can no longer perform efficiently, recirculating pollutants inside your home. Check your filters regularly or consult an expert regarding filter replacement. Timely replacement of filters can alleviate allergy symptoms and improve your indoor air quality.
2. Ignoring HVAC Maintenance
Annual or biannual HVAC inspections and tune-ups are vital. These maintenance checks ensure your system runs efficiently; they also identify potential air quality issues like dirty coils or blocked drain lines. Maintenance is especially important in areas with high humidity in the summer and cold winters, as these conditions can put extra strain on your HVAC units. Investing in regular cooling or heating repair and maintenance is the key to keeping your system in top shape.
3. Using Harmful Chemicals Indoors
The use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in household cleaning products, air fresheners, and scented candles can significantly worsen indoor air quality. VOCs are harmful chemicals that can evaporate into the air at room temperature, potentially leading to respiratory issues and other health problems. Opting for natural or green cleaning alternatives and reducing the use of scented products can improve indoor air quality.
4. Poor Ventilation
Properly managing your home’s airflow is crucial, especially in areas with extreme and unpredictable weather. While it’s common to keep windows sealed during harsh conditions, this can trap pollutants inside. When weather permits, open windows to allow fresh air circulation, which can help dilute indoor pollutants.
5. Overlooking Indoor Humidity Levels
Too much or too little humidity can exacerbate air quality issues. High humidity levels encourage mold growth and increased allergens, while low humidity can cause respiratory discomfort and skin irritation. Monitoring and managing humidity with humidifiers or dehumidifiers, depending on the season and indoor conditions, is crucial for maintaining optimal indoor air quality.
6. Neglecting Cleaning and Ductwork
Regular vacuuming, dusting, and home cleaning reduce particulate matter that can compromise air quality. Moreover, ductwork cleaning is often overlooked, yet it’s essential if your home’s heating and cooling usage varies significantly throughout the year. Clean ducts ensure effective and clean air distribution, preventing dust and mold accumulation that can be recirculated by the HVAC system.
Maintaining indoor air quality is essential for both comfort and health, and Perfect Degree HVAC is here to help. We can guide you in addressing common mistakes to improve your living environment and enhance the efficiency of your heating and air conditioning systems. Call us today at (610) 529-7372 or use our contact form to schedule an appointment.
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