Riverview Pool and Electrical Contractors Serving Tampa
The air in your home impacts your health more than you probably realize. Unless you take steps to improve it, indoor pollution levels could easily be far higher than outside. You may be especially aware of this if you have asthma, allergies, or other respiratory problems. Fortunately, you can improve indoor air quality with these simple tips.
Change the HVAC Filter Regularly
The air filter traps dirt and debris every time the air conditioner runs. Over time, the filter becomes clogged and restricts airflow, straining the cooling equipment and failing to trap contaminants like it’s supposed to. This results in dustier air that irritates your eyes, nose, and throat. To prevent these problems, change the HVAC filter every one to three months or as recommended by the manufacturer. It’s a small price to pay for better indoor air quality.
Clean the Ductwork
It’s easy to forget about the ductwork, but it greatly impacts your indoor air. While the EPA has no recommended timeframe for professional duct cleaning, it’s important to check your air ducts every few years for mold, rodent nests, and obstructions. If a technician spots any of these problems during an inspection, you know it’s time to clean the ducts. The results include better airflow and cleaner indoor air.
Maintain Proper Humidity
Indoor mold growth is possible all year round, but it’s especially prevalent in the summer when humidity levels are high. Running the air conditioner removes some moisture, but it’s not always enough in Florida’s humid climate.
That’s why a dehumidifier might benefit you. This device runs independently of the air conditioner to remove excess humidity and help keep mold growth at bay. You can also take other measures to lower indoor humidity, such as running the exhaust fan when cooking, showering, and doing laundry.
Establish a Cleaning Routine
Upholstery and wall-to-wall carpeting act as a sort of filter, trapping dirt, dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens—until walking or sitting down wafts them into the air, making you sneeze. Prevent allergens from accumulating by dusting, vacuuming, and mopping weekly. Also, wash your bedding every other week in hot water to kill dust mites living in the sheets. Wipe down the bathroom often as well to remove standing water and small mold colonies that have formed since the last time you cleaned.
Make Your Home a Smoke-Free Zone
Secondhand smoke is a serious health hazard, especially for children. If you smoke, avoid doing so inside. Consider breaking the habit for your own health. Then, if you have guests who smoke, ask them to step outside first.
To learn more about improving indoor air quality, reach out to Hawkins Service Company. We are a fully licensed HVAC, electric, pool, plumbing, and gas contractor with a service team boasting hundreds of years of combined experience. We’re proud to be your one-stop shop for most residential home service needs! Call us at (813) 871-6610 or contact us online to schedule HVAC services in the Tampa Bay Area.
