The quality of the air inside a structure can be impacted by a number of different factors, including the HVAC system, the cleanliness of the building, and any pollutants that may have been used during construction. In turn, the indoor air quality can then impact the health of people who utilize the structure, especially those with sensitive immune systems or allergies. Below is a more in-depth look at how indoor air quality can affect health, along with some ways to improve the air in your home.

Air Quality & Health

Depending on the air quality issue and the constitution of the individual, the effects might be immediate—obvious after a single exposure—or they may slowly develop over the long term. On the more immediate end of symptoms, an individual might experience a runny nose, watery eyes, a sore throat, dizziness or lightheadedness, or fatigue. In many cases, the individual is noticeably improved after leaving the indoor environment or after the aggravating allergen has been removed.

Long-term symptoms can be much more serious. The pollutant has more time to take root in one's system and do insidious damage. In extreme cases, cancer and respiratory illnesses are possible after long exposure to toxic indoor air.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Fortunately, there are a few easy things you can do to make your indoor air as safe as possible. Changing the air filters in your HVAC system every 90 days is a good start. Schedule a yearly HVAC inspection with a heating and air conditioning maintenance professional. Regularly using air purifiers can also go a long way in keeping air quality clean and comfortable. Indoor plants are excellent at naturally removing harmful components in the air.

One of the simplest and most effective things to do is to keep your home clean. Vacuum, sweep, mop, and dust on a weekly basis. If you have pets, you may need to give your home a deeper clean.

Indoor air quality can have a direct impact on health and well-being, but property owners can take proactive steps to keep the air they breathe clean and safe. The Gary Duncan Service Company has been providing Trane®-certified HVAC services to the DeSoto County, MS, area for nearly 40 years. In addition to repairs, they also offer A/C and heating system installation and sales. To learn more or to request a quote, contact them today by calling (662) 895-2023 or visiting their website.