Indoor air quality impacts the health and comfort of your family in Daphne, AL. The air quality in your home or business is constantly changing, so it’s essential to consider the factors that may impact it. The following are factors that may affect the indoor air quality in your home.
1. Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are harmful chemicals that evaporate into the air and burden the human respiratory system. They can contribute to poor indoor air quality and are a significant source of indoor air pollution. Many VOCs come from common household products, such as furniture, paint and cleaning supplies.
Avoid purchasing products that emit high levels of VOCs, and make sure you have adequate ventilation in each room. Controlling odors from VOCs is possible with a good indoor air quality system.
2. Ventilation
A poorly operating ventilation system is an extensive cause of indoor air quality problems. Poor ventilation systems can cause bad smells and odors to spread in your Daphne, AL home.
Poor ventilation systems also allow moisture and pollutants from the outside. This causes an immediate decline in indoor air quality.
If you are unsure whether your ventilation system is working properly, have your ductwork and insulation inspected by a qualified HVAC technician.
3. Humidity
Relative humidity is a concern because it can affect your furniture, wood floors, and more. It also makes it feel warmer inside than it actually is. High humidity inside your home can also allow organic biologic growth to happen. This can create a musty odor and impact the health and comfort of family members.
On the other hand, if your home has low humidity, the air feels drier. This can cause respiratory problems, dry out your skin and hair and cause nosebleeds. You can solve this problem by simply installing a humidifier to keep the humidity in your home at levels that are comfortable for your lifestyle.
4. AC System
An AC draws air throughout the ductwork of the system, which allows consistent airflow in your home. AC systems also help to regulate the temperature in your home. However, preexisting AC system problems can affect your indoor air quality.
If your duct system is dirty or vents become clogged, it will inhibit air from moving through the system. This can happen when organic growth or just dirt and dust builds up in the ducts and vents. Consequently, this causes stuffy conditions in your home, thus affecting your indoor air quality.
If you don’t schedule regular maintenance services on your AC unit, your system will not be able to eliminate pollutants from the air circulating in your home. Therefore, you will end up breathing in harmful contaminants, which could lead to respiratory problems. To maintain good indoor air quality, ensure your AC system is regularly maintained and serviced. You should also schedule an inspection of your ductwork and have them cleaned, if needed.
5. Pets
Pets have become part of family life. However, they have a substantial impact on indoor air quality. This is because pets naturally shed hair and dander, which are airborne and can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Pet hair and dander can also collect in carpets, furniture, rugs, floors and clothing. Removing pet hair and dander from carpets and upholstery with a good vacuum cleaner will help decrease these sources of airborne contaminants.
You should also check your air filters frequently, and change them as needed to prevent the accumulation of pet dander and particles. This helps to improve your indoor air quality and ensures your living environment is comfortable and healthy.
Contact Air Specialty today if you are in need of quality AC installation services. We guarantee 100% satisfaction and offer affordable pricing for all our HVAC services.
Image provided by iStock