Back to Basics: Indoor Air Quality Edition

woman vacuuming a carpet next to her dog

How much do you really know about indoor air quality (IAQ)? Do you know where your humidity level stands? Or if there are airborne pollutants aggravating your family’s health? Most homeowners don’t know these things off the tops of their heads—however, there are a few things you should. The River City Heating & Air Conditioning experts are going back to basics and covering the top indoor air quality factors you should keep in mind.

An Introduction to IAQ

First things first—let’s cover what indoor air quality is. It tells you how clean the air is within and around your home, building, or structure. Another reason it’s become increasingly important is because indoor air can cause short- and long-term health problems, including:

  • Fatigue

  • Irritated eyes, nose, and throat

  • Headaches and dizziness

  • Asthma and allergies

  • Coughing and sneezing

  • Sinus congestion and illnesses

In severe cases, individuals in your home could develop respiratory infections or diseases, heart disease, or reduced lung function.

What Causes Poor Air Quality?

Understanding what causes poor air quality is important so you can eliminate the sources from your home. Here are the top contributors:

  • Mold and mildew (some types can be especially dangerous)

  • Secondhand smoke, which can cause wheezing, pneumonia, and bronchitis

  • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can come from building materials and furnishings, cooking odors, and everyday products (including cleaners, detergents, soaps, deodorants, perfumes, and candles)

Consider opting for nontoxic, fragrance-free products to reduce the number of pollutants in your home.

Simple Ways to Improve Your Air

While major problems require professional attention, these simple tips will help ensure your indoor air is clean and healthy:

  • Keep your house clean—vacuum, dust, and wash bedding and linens regularly.

  • Replace your air filter routinely to remove as many airborne pollutants as possible.

  • Invest in an air purifier to effectively remove up to 99 percent of irritants. Air purifiers are also 40 times more effective than standard air filters.

  • Open windows to let fresh air in whenever possible. Also, consider adding a Bryant® air ventilator to your home to bring fresh air inside year-round without wasting energy.

Worried About Your Indoor Air? We’re Here to Help

If you’re concerned you have an air quality issue, let us know. Our experts are Indoor Air Quality Specialist certified—we’ve been helping homeowners achieve healthy home air for decades. We’ll test your air, let you know if any problems are present, and recommend a solution to fix them. Call 507-454-7689 to schedule an appointment—we’re happy to help you.

In the meantime, learn more about how a whole-home humidifier can make you more comfortable, and what a difference an air ventilator can make for your air quality.