Why Indoor Air Quality Matters
Outdoor air quality is often discussed, especially in recent months. When wildfire smoke from Canada reaches the Boston area — even if it isn’t visible, the small particles can still impact the air quality index. But what about indoor air quality? After all, most people spend much of their time indoors. And a huge chunk of that time is spent in the home. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to simply look up a home’s air quality online. But maintaining healthy indoor air is essential for ensuring inhabitants aren’t inhaling harmful particles for hours every day. Luckily, there are a couple of simple ways to improve indoor air quality in the home.
Adverse Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality
It can be tempting to think that poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in a home isn’t an issue. If there are no obvious sources of pollution, such as tobacco smoke, then many homeowners think their air quality is good without having indoor air quality testing done. Unfortunately, many indoor air pollution sources are inside the home. These include pet dander, dust mites, radon, carbon monoxide, lead, and various volatile organic compounds from common cleaning products often stored in the home.
Breathing these pollutants in can adversely affect inhabitants — especially young children, older adults, and those with respiratory issues. But even healthy individuals can experience headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and throat, nose, and eye irritation. Not to mention allergic reactions or asthma. Fortunately, there are things homeowners can do to improve indoor air quality.
First Line of Defense: Filters
The first line of defense against poor indoor air quality is all about filter changes and regular HVAC maintenance. The air filter is designed for this very purpose, after all. But it depends on the homeowner to change it on time. It’s also up to the homeowner to schedule regular HVAC maintenance to ensure the system is functioning and that the correct filters are used.
Most homes will need to perform air filter replacements once every three months. However, those homes with many pets will want to change their filter more frequently — every two months or so, depending on the system. It’s also important to discuss indoor air quality with a professional HVAC technician to determine if anything else needs to be done. Because even with regular filter changes, most homes could benefit from additional help for healthy indoor air quality.
Additional Help: Air Cleaning Systems
Two types of air cleaning systems are available on the market. The first is an air purifier, and the second is an air sanitizer. These two systems work in different ways. Air purifiers work much like the AC system, pulling things like dust and other particulate matter from the air with the help of a filter. Air sanitizers don’t pull particulate matter from the air. Instead, they neutralize airborne pollutants like viruses, mold, and chemicals. UV air sanitizers do this through the use of ultraviolet light.
While both systems work to improve indoor air quality, they will benefit households differently. For general air quality improvement, most homes would benefit greatly from an air purifier. It will reduce dust and dander in the air, helping to reduce allergies and most respiratory issues. In homes where susceptible individuals live, such as very young children or older adults with weakened immune systems, a UV air sanitizer will help reduce the chances of illness due to airborne viruses. Homeowners unsure whether they need one of these systems should consult a professional HVAC technician to determine the best way to improve indoor air quality.
About Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning
Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning has proudly served Boston, MA since 1962. As industry-leading professionals, they provide long-term comfort with tailored solutions. Their 24/7 service also provides peace of mind for those dreaded HVAC emergencies. Contact them today for indoor air quality services in Boston, MA.
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