Poor indoor air quality is a serious issue, and it can affect your family’s health if it occurs at home. In addition to aggravating allergies and causing other health issues, poor air quality can also reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency, potentially clogging ductwork and increasing utility costs. Here are four potential causes of this issue and how to fix them.

4 Factors That Contribute to Bad Air Quality

1. Dirty Carpeting

Regularly vacuuming doesn’t just make the carpeting feel good underfoot; it can also significantly improve air quality. Over time, dust, dirt, pet dander, and pollen are all ground into the carpet fibers. There, they contribute to adverse air quality and can even clog the HVAC system by entering the ductwork through the air and ground vents. Vacuuming every few days will remove these contaminants, but it’s also helpful to have the floor steam-cleaned once or twice a year to get deeper into the weave.

2. Chemical Cleaners

When you purchase cleaning products, look for options with natural ingredients like vinegar, essential oils, and citric acid. These options will clean your home without using toxic chemicals like bleach and ammonia. These toxins can contribute to headaches and lower respiratory health. If you’re looking for alternate options, the Environmental Working Group has published a list of commercial products that won’t cause or exacerbate existing breathing issues.

3. Cigarette Smoke

According to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, over 58 million people are exposed to secondhand smoke each year. The National Cancer Institute noted that at least 69 of the 250 known harmful chemicals found in cigarettes have been found to cause cancer, so it’s critical to ensure no one smokes inside your home.

4. Mold Growth

The Environmental Protection Agency has stated that mold is a key cause of allergic reactions inside homes. From the black species that grows in the bathroom shower grout to the yellow mold that appears on the wall near a leak, it’s essential to remove any mold as soon as possible to prevent allergic reactions. Mold can also crop up in your home’s HVAC system, requiring periodic ductwork cleaning and the installation of humidifiers or dehumidifiers to limit the potential for regrowth. 

To fight poor air quality and ensure your family’s good health, install an air purifier and have your HVAC ductwork cleaned. The experienced team at Rochester Heating & Cooling in Rochester, NY, can provide both, in addition to 24/7 emergency services. Call them at (585) 458-3700 or visit their website for information on their services.