From Guest Blogger Lizzie Weakly: Breathing Room–How to Ensure Clean Air is Circulating your Home

Clean air is an important concern for those who deal with breathing difficulties such as COPD or asthma, but it is just as important for those who don’t suffer from any health problems related to breathing. Your indoor air supply can be more polluted than you realize because modern homes tend to be well-sealed and insulated, which can affect the escape of volatile organic compounds. Good ventilation is important, but you also need to be aware of these additional steps that can help you to ensure that the air circulating in your home is clean.

Change Your Air Filter Regularly

The air filter’s main role is to keep solid material from settling on the interior HVAC equipment in your home. In the process, it pulls these materials out of the airstream, which can improve the quality of air that you breathe. To ensure that this filtration is as effective as possible, you need to check your filter at least once each month. Make a prompt change if significant levels of dirt are clogging the filter.

Schedule Preventive Maintenance for Your HVAC System

An HVAC contractor can inspect your equipment before the heating or cooling season begins to ensure that the mechanical components are in good working order. When the air handler of your heat pump or air conditioner is serviced, the evaporator coils and drain pan are cleaned, which promotes better airflow and removes mold, mildew, and bacteria that could taint your breathable air.

It is also important to have a contractor such as Compressor-Pump & Service, Inc. inspect any heating equipment powered by fossil fuel before winter heating is needed. An HVAC technician can identify and fix issues that could lead to carbon monoxide leaks in the home. The odorless gas can be deadly during winter months, and without a preventive inspection, you could unknowingly expose your household to CO dangers.

Clean Your Ductwork

Ducts can harbor unseen pollutants, including dust, mold, dander, and dead insects. A professional cleaning every few years is helpful for maintaining ideal quality in your home’s air supply. Leaks should be sealed to minimize the potential for gases and pests infiltrating this area.

One of the best ways to manage indoor air quality is to begin with a survey of your home’s conditions. An HVAC specialist who is familiar with indoor air quality services and equipment can test the air to identify pollutants. Additionally, this offers the opportunity to discuss equipment designed to better filter your air supply. An IAQ specialist can also provide insight about efficient ventilation options. This baseline of information makes it possible to plan a course of managing your home’s air supply now and for the future.