As the days turn cooler, most people start spending more time indoors. Your home should be a safe place for you to relax and enjoy your surroundings. Unfortunately, you could be breathing in contaminants every time you walk in the door. Thanks to dust, pet dander, mold, synthetic fragrances and other pollutants, the air inside your home could be more contaminated than the outside air.
Fall is approaching, and now is the perfect time to take a close look at the quality of the air inside your home and learn how to improve it. Here are four easy ways to improve your indoor air quality this fall.
Clean Up Regularly
Dust and dander are some of the most common contaminants inside homes. Wipe dust from ceiling fans, air vents and exhaust fans regularly using a damp cloth. Also, take a peek inside your ductwork using a flashlight. If you spot any cobwebs or debris, we recommend having your ducts professionally cleaned.
Ask your guests to remove their shoes before entering your home and vacuum no less than twice per week – more if you have pets. Wash blankets, towels and bedding regularly.
Install a Humidifier
Fall weather makes the air inside your home drier. When the humidity drops,, you may experience irritated sinuses, dry eyes, nosebleeds and dry skin. Installing a humidifier helps maintain consistent humidity levels inside your home by adding water vapor to the air.
Avoid Commercial Air Fresheners
Many commercial air freshening products contain dangerous ingredients known as volatile organic compounds. These compounds have been linked to causing cancer and other health problems in animals. Since manufacturers aren’t required to list specific fragrance ingredients, it’s difficult to determine whether a particular product contains VOCs.
Avoid the risk by using natural air fresheners when possible. Essential oils and potpourri make your home smell great without contributing to indoor pollution.
Your HVAC system plays a vital role in improving indoor air quality. It filters the air that is circulated throughout your home and brings in fresh air from outdoors but only if it is properly maintained. Examine your heating and cooling filters no less than once per month, and clean or replace them when they’re dirty.
HVAC Repair and Replacement Services
Our team recommends having your heating system inspected annually. Our professionals offer fast and convenient HVAC repair services in Hopkinton, MA and are available to help improve the air quality in your house. An inspection at the beginning of fall helps prevent indoor air quality problems in the coming months. To get your home ready for fall and winter, contact us today. Call 508-893-4258.