What Is Indoor Air Quality?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that indoor air quality refers to the safety and "breathability" of a home's climate. If one can live in a home free of health problems, indoor air quality is good. However, the home's indoor air quality likely needs improvement if one constantly struggles with respiratory problems.
Thankfully, there are many things homeowners can do to ensure good air quality in their homes. Here, one can learn about indoor air quality and how to maintain it.
The Long-Term Health Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Knowing how poor indoor air quality can cause adverse health effects is important. According to the National Environmental Education Foundation, poor air quality can cause:
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Irritation of the throat, eyes, and ears
- Respiratory problems, such as bronchitis
- An elevated risk of cancer and other life-altering ailments
Over time, these conditions can seriously affect one's quality of life. If one is concerned about their home's indoor air quality, they should consider consulting an HVAC maintenance professional.
The Importance of Air Filter Replacement and Maintenance
EnergyStar reports that homeowners should replace their AC unit's air filter at least once every three months. If the home has a lot of residents (or pets), one should change their air filter even more frequently. Before purchasing an air filter, they should know its width, length, and height first. An improperly-sized air filter will not minimize the unit's efficiency.
Other ways homeowners can improve their home's indoor air quality include:
- Scheduling an annual visit with an HVAC maintenance professional
- Promptly addressing mold or mildew growth
- Purchasing a portable air conditioner or air sanitizer
- Keeping the AC on all day, even when it's not necessary
- Refraining from smoking inside the house
- Installing a gas or carbon monoxide detector
Each of these things can promote a homeowner's health and well-being. They can also extend the AC system's lifespan, saving money and frustration in the long run.
Portable Air Cleaners Come with Many Benefits
Portable air cleaners include both air sanitizers and air purifiers. They have one job: to filter out pollutants from the home and maintain indoor air quality. Yet, though the end goal is the same, they have many differences, including:
- Air sanitizers filter bacteria, germs, and viruses from the home's air. These devices also decrease the likelihood of one suffering from respiratory-related illnesses.
- Air purifiers keep pollutants, such as dander, dust, and dirt, from lingering in the home's air. One should purchase a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) device when purchasing one of these devices. The EPA says these are the most efficient devices for removing contaminants from the air.
When deciding whether to purchase an air sanitizer or air purifier, one should consider their budget, home's square footage, and energy consumption habits. These things can help one make an informed decision when improving their home's indoor air quality.
About Boutwell's Air Masters
Boutwell's Air Masters understands the importance of the home's indoor air quality. These professionals have served Pensacola, Florida, since 1976. In this time, they've earned countless five-star reviews and top-notch service. Contact them today for expert AC service!
