Living in a home with poor air quality can have an adverse impact on your long-term health and quality of life. You may find you’re frequently coughing or wheezing, feeling itchy, or struggling with chest pain. It also increases your risk of serious conditions like lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory infections. Here are a few easy ways you can effectively improve your air quality to benefit your health.
Establish Regular Cleaning Routine
Hair, dirt, and other particulates can build up in your carpets, around your living spaces, and in the corners of your home over time. Dust is particularly nefarious, as it will settle on your fan blades, curtains, and blinds. One suggestion to improve your indoor air quality is to use microfiber rags or other dust-trapping cloths to remove visible debris from your shelves and furniture. Also, you should vacuum your carpets and shake out your rugs at least once a week to get rid of excess dust and dirt.
Invest in Better Air Filters
Fiberglass air filters are the most common but also the least effective type of HVAC filter. Pleated varieties are much better at capturing debris. Depending on your household, they’ll last up to 90 days, unlike fiberglass filters that are only good for about a month. It’s essential to find filters with a high minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating. Residential HVAC systems can use filters with MERV ratings between eight and 16. You’ll want to pick an air filter with a MERV rating that’s recommended for your furnace, as a higher rating isn’t necessarily always better.
Reduce Dampness
High humidity levels can quickly tank your air quality by allowing mold spores to thrive. Viruses, bacteria, and dust mites will also duplicate and spread faster in moist, warm environments. Reduce in-home dampness by turning on your exhaust vents/fans when you shower or cook. Keep a watch out for leaky pipes or persistent water spots in your basement. If you live in a high-moisture area, install a dehumidifier to limit water damage and the chances of mold or mildew.
Sherwood Heating and Air Conditioning
Bill Lea Service is a BBB-accredited and an EPA-certified heating and cooling company in Sherwood, AR. We offer comprehensive services like HVAC repairs, maintenance, and installations. Our team can also clean or seal your ducts and boost your air quality. Schedule your next HVAC appointment with the experts at Bill Lea Service in Sherwood.
