Can heat pumps make you sick? Clean indoor air is of utmost importance. Although HVAC systems offer numerous advantages, they are not flawless. It can be easy for your home to become contaminated with air pollutants, viruses, and allergens. While heat pumps can’t exactly make you sick, you will still need to properly maintain your HVAC system to prevent illnesses in your home. This guide will provide you with some useful tips to improve indoor air quality and reduce air pollution in your home.
Way to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Air pollutants can be anything from gas leaks to allergens brought in by your pets. Here are several things you can do to improve the air quality indoors:
Inspect Air Ducts
The air ducts disperse both cold and hot air in your home. This is how you are able to remain comfortable throughout your home. However, improperly installed and maintained air ducts can cause problems once they disperse contaminants throughout your home. Dander, dust, and mold can build up in the air ducts, thus impacting the air quality in your home. The best way to ensure that your ducts are distributing clean air is by hiring a professional.
Change Air Filter
AC systems work hard throughout the year to provide your home with clean, fresh air. They also filter out some common contaminants. However, with time, these air filters can struggle to do their job once contaminants accumulate inside the filter. This will directly impact your indoor air quality and wear down your system. If you fail to change your AC filter regularly, it can cost you later on.
Turn on Cooking Vents
A vast majority of air pollutants come right from your kitchen. If you have a gas stove, it releases carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, both of which are dangerous. Electric burners can also give off these same contaminants, but not to the same extent. However, once released into the area, they can be absorbed into your bloodstream. While cooking, make sure that you open your windows or turn on your cooking vents to help clear the air.
Keep Humidity Levels Under Control
Humidity is a breeding ground for mold. Mold and mildew can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. If you live in a particularly humid location, your summers can be troubling if you don’t keep these levels under control. You may want to consider placing a few dehumidifiers around your home to reduce the amount of moisture present. There are many options to choose from that will provide an adequate living environment in your home.
Purchase Indoor Plants
Plants naturally filter the air. If you’re looking for a quick, effective, and non-expensive way to improve your indoor air quality, plants are your best friend. Not only will plants provide better indoor air quality, but they will also boost your interior design. Larger palm tree plants and even smaller plants such as lilies are perfect for drawing out contaminants in the air.
Clean Carpets & Rugs
Both rugs and carpets harbor dust and other allergens in your home. To improve the comfort in your home, be sure to give your rugs and carpets a nice cleaning every week. This will also help to improve your indoor air quality.
Check other Air Filters
Besides checking the AC filter, don’t forget to check and change out additional filters throughout your home. Check your clothes dryer and kitchen vents, and vacuum cleaner to ensure they are properly maintained. These filters should be swapped out every three months.
Avoid Using Scented Candles
Did you know that most scented candles and air fresheners release chemicals into the air? Instead of buying air fresheners, you can make your very own at home. All you need is lemon slices, water, and rosemary. Boil these ingredients in a pot and allow them to simmer.
Eliminate Dust
All surfaces in your home should be dusted and vacuumed on a weekly basis. Don’t forget to get underneath the beds and couches.
Avoid Smoking in Your Home
Secondhand smoke poses many dangers to others around it. The best way to prevent secondhand smoke is to stop smoking in your car and home. Air filters and opening windows will not prevent it.
