While we all enjoy the sunshine and warmth, those hot months affect indoor air quality. As the temperature rises, so do indoor pollutants, allergens, and humidity levels.
Don’t let poor air quality ruin your summer vibes. The Standard Heating, Cooling & Plumbing team offers expert advice on maintaining indoor air quality during the sweltering season.
The Air We Breathe: Why Indoor Air Quality Matters?
First, why should you care about indoor air quality (IAQ)? Good IAQ is essential for your health and comfort. It affects everything from respiratory health to sleep quality. During the hot months, windows are often shut tight to keep the cool air in, but this can trap pollutants inside. Here’s how to keep your indoor air fresh and clean all summer.
- Keep Your HVAC System in Tip-Top Shape: Your HVAC system is your best friend during the hot months, but it needs some love, too. Regular maintenance, like changing air filters and scheduling professional tune-ups, ensures your system runs efficiently and doesn’t circulate dust and allergens. A clean filter means cleaner air and a more efficient system.
- Embrace Dehumidifiers: Summer heat often comes with high humidity, creating a breeding ground for mold and dust mites. A dehumidifier can be your secret weapon. By keeping indoor humidity at optimal levels, you can reduce these allergens. Lower humidity makes your home feel cooler, letting you set your thermostat a bit higher and save on energy bills.
- Use Exhaust Fans: Activities like cooking and showering add heat and moisture to your home. Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to vent out steam, smoke, and odors. Proper ventilation is critical to reducing indoor pollutants and maintaining good air quality.
- Go Green with Houseplants: Certain houseplants act as natural air purifiers, absorbing toxins and releasing clean oxygen. Plants like spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants are great choices. They improve air quality and add a touch of greenery to your decor. Just remember, over-watering can increase indoor humidity, so water wisely!
- Keep It Clean: Regular cleaning can drastically improve your IAQ. Dust surfaces, vacuum carpets and rugs, and mop floors to reduce dust, pet dander, and other allergens. Remember to wash bedding and curtains, as they can harbor dust mites.
- Seal Cracks and Leaks: Sealing cracks and leaks around doors and windows improves your home’s energy efficiency and prevents outdoor pollutants from sneaking in. Weather stripping and caulking are simple fixes that can make a big difference in maintaining clean indoor air.
Indoor Air Quality Experts In Birmingham, AL
Maintaining indoor air quality during the hot months can be a manageable task. With these easy tips and a little help from Standard Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, you can breathe easy and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable home this summer. Contact us today at (205) 386-4001 to learn more about our services and how we can help improve your indoor air quality.