Improving Indoor Air Quality with your HVAC System this Summer Part I

Maintaining indoor air quality (IAQ) is vital for a healthy living space, especially in the summer when you are using your HVAC system so frequently. Your HVAC system plays an important role in filtering and circulating the air in your home. Here are several ways you can improve or maintain air quality while using your HVAC system this summer: 

Regular Maintenance

Your HVAC system needs regular maintenance to keep everything running smoothly. A registered HVAC professional can clean or maintain any components that might affect air quality. This includes components like air filters, coils, ductwork, fans, etc. This ensures that any accumulation of dust, pollen, or debris is removed. 

Use High-Quality Air Filters

Using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can improve air quality. These filters have a higher Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value rating, which means they can catch harmful particles smaller than the average HVAC filter. These filters should be checked and changed regularly in order to remove as many harmful particles as possible. 

Install a Whole-House Air Purifier

Consider having your registered HVAC professional install an air purifier. These can range in size and effectiveness based on the space you want to purify. A place like a hospital will need the most highly efficient air purifiers, while your home might need something smaller. These purifiers can use UV light, electrostatic filters, and activated carbon to remove pollutants, harmful particles, bacteria, and viruses from the air. 

Maintain Proper Humidity Levels

Overly humid environments can build up excess moisture which can lead to mold buildup or other types of harmful growth. Installing a dehumidifier, which are built-in to some HVAC systems can help reduce humidity in your space. 

Clean Ductwork Regularly

We’d argue that the most important and effective way to improve air quality in your home is to have your ductwork professionally cleaned. This is necessary every few years to ensure there is no buildup of dust, debris, animal nests, etc. While having your ductwork cleaned it is also a good time to have your HVAC professional to check for any leaks and have them sealed. This will not only keep stuff from building up in your ductwork, but also keep your HVAC system running more efficiently. 

Conclusion

It’s important to maintain and improve air quality in your home. This is the air you breathe everyday. Keeping air quality well maintained can improve your quality of life and keep you healthier. If you are interested in improving air quality in your home, reach out to us at Air-Mart AC & Heating to learn more.