Share:

Indoor air quality is more than a buzzword. It’s a serious issue that merits attention, particularly when it comes to your HVAC system. A well-insulated home improves your energy efficiency, but it can also lead to the deterioration of the air quality inside your living space. Here’s a closer look at the factors that cause poor indoor air quality, their possible effects, and how to protect yourself against unhealthy air.

What Causes Poor Indoor Air Quality?

Poor indoor air quality can stem from many sources inside your home. The heating equipment of your HVAC system, such as a gas-fired or oil-burning furnace, produces pollutants like particles and combustion byproducts. Carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, secondhand smoke, and other toxic emissions degrade air quality.

HVACIn addition to combustion and heating devices, pollutants can also come from cleaning materials, personal care products, paints, waxes, and chemical strippers in the form of volatile organic compounds, also known as VOCs. These chemicals naturally evaporate into the air, affecting its quality. Other sources of VOCs are furniture, cabinetry, upholstery, flooring, carpet, air fresheners, building materials, and even dry-cleaned fabrics.

Pet dander, dirt, mold spores, and pollen also pollute the air, and they often remain concentrated and airborne for a long time unless removed from circulation.  

What Are Its Effects?

Breathing in polluted air is hazardous, especially for people who have compromised immune systems or existing respiratory conditions. Below are some effects of breathing unhealthy air.

  • Health Issues: High concentrations of air pollutants can trigger asthma attacks, allergies, nausea, headaches, fatigue, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. It can also result in a host of other health problems such as long-term lung and cardiovascular diseases.

  • Energy Inefficiency: Pollutants trapped on the HVAC filters can block proper airflow, causing extra strain on your system’s motor. Not only does this result in higher energy consumption and utility bills, but it can also lead to sudden breakdowns and premature failure.

How to Improve Air Quality

Fortunately, there are a few ways you can do improve the air quality inside your home.

  • Clean Your House: Reduce the buildup of pollutants inside your home through regular cleaning, vacuuming, and clearing out the clutter. Spare no area when removing dirt, dander, and dust mites, especially in nooks and crannies.

  • Change HVAC Filters: Make it a point to inspect the air filters of your HVAC system every three months, or shorter if you have pets or allergies. Depending on the type of filter installed, you can either clean or change it to eliminate the pollutants.

  • Invest in Air Cleaners: If you’re unable to remove or control the source of the pollutant, invest in an air cleaner or purifier to enhance the quality of air. You can also occasionally let fresh air in to replace the stale air inside your home.  

 

 

Prevent poor indoor quality by working with the HVAC professionals from Rochester Heating & Cooling. Based in Rochester, NY, they provide a full range of heating and cooling services, including duct cleaning and air cleaner installation, to homes and businesses throughout Monroe County. Call (585) 458-3700 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information.

tracking