Practical HVAC Solutions to Improve IAQ

At Aire Serv of Nashville, we realize that indoor air pollution can be exponentially worse than it is outdoors. Recent studies by the EPA's Total Exposure Assessment Methodology (TEAM) found a list of common organic pollutants to be up to 5 times higher inside homes than outside concentrations. Given the average American spends 90% of their time indoors, indoor air quality (IAQ) should be a top health concern.

For Aire Serv, IAQ takes this matter seriously. We have the tools, technologies, and tips you need to mitigate pollutants and clean your indoor air efficiently. By applying proven techniques, taking preventative measures, and performing regular HVAC maintenance, you can significantly improve the air you breathe indoors in no time!

Common HVAC Solutions

Air pollutants come in all shapes and sizes – ranging from gas leaks to contaminants brought indoors by pets and shoes. If natural gas escapes without being burned off or noticed, you may be breathing carbon monoxide – a severe health hazard. Meanwhile, the air in many homes often contains differing amounts of lead paint, asbestos, and mold/mildew.

To make matters worse, dirty air ducts in older homes are likelier to release and spread unhealthy airborne contaminants. All these pollutants can cause irrevocable damage to your lungs – especially if unknowingly inhaled over long periods.

The good news is that there are many steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. Today, we will outline practical and effective HVAC alterations to improve the air quality in your home.

Organic Living: A Few Non-HVAC Solutions to Improve IAQ

Buy Non-Toxic Home Furnishings

Countless furniture products contain synthetic materials and toxic glues. The varnishes, stains, and lacquers used to finish surfaces can also be detrimental – particularly to individuals with allergies or asthma. Buying furniture free of harmful chemicals and formaldehyde can make a positive difference.

Test for Radon

Long-term exposure to radon (an odorless and colorless gas) is known to cause lung cancer. Radon is found in soil and can seep into your home through any cracks in the foundation. Let a professional regularly test for radon to keep you and your family healthy!

Never Use Aerosol Sprays Indoors

Aerosol sprays disperse all kinds of harmful airborne chemicals you breathe. If you must spray something (even your hair), take it outside. A better solution is to buy non-aerosol alternatives when shopping for air fresheners, hair sprays, and deodorants.

Stay Fragrance-Free

We suggest purchasing fragrance-free products. Fragrant laundry soap, trash bags, and bathroom cleaners can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. Why not use natural cleaners such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon instead?

Select Your Paint Smartly

Not all paints are created equal. Some can cause dizziness, headaches, and respiratory issues due to the fumes. Choosing zero or low VOC paints can dramatically decrease the harmful fumes and chemicals you breathe.

Remove Footwear When Indoors

Taking your shoes off at the door is a commonsense solution. We step on dust, bacteria, dirt, pesticides, and contaminants every time we step outside. Why track these pollutants through your home? Keep your floors pristine by placing a shoe rack or basket by entryways.

Do note: Shoes or not, allergens and pollutants will gradually accumulate on rugs, linoleum, hardwood, carpet, or any flooring. It is critical to vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter and mop hardwood, tile, and vinyl floors with organic cleaning products.

Add Plants

Plants are natural air purifiers – give your indoor space some life and greenery while cleaning up the air simultaneously!

Easy HVAC-Related Steps to Improve IAQ

Regularly Check, Clean, & Change AC Filters

In many homes, air-conditioning systems work tirelessly to maintain the ideal indoor temperature. Over time, their filters will accumulate dirt – becoming clogged and overrun by debris/pollutants. Dirty filters will cause your AC to work overtime and contaminate your indoor air. We offer regular maintenance plans and recurring service visits to ensure your AC filters are consistently changed.

Regularly Check Air Ducts

Air ducts are the channels that distribute hot and cold air to every room. Contaminants and dirt can quickly spread if gaps, leaks, or holes exist in your ducts. Let our technicians inspect your ductwork today! We can make the necessary repairs and perform a deep cleaning to reduce pollutants (dust, dander, and mold). By sealing the ducts and utilizing high-powered vacuums, we will make sure they are circulating fresh air again in no time!

Keep Your Vents Running & In Good Condition

Many indoor air pollutants emerge in the kitchen. Gas and electric stoves, for example, both release harmful contaminants such as nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide. These particles are invisible and silently breathed. Cleaning and replacing the filters on vacuum cleaners, oven vents, and dryers periodically should be a top priority. Having a professional inspect and maintain your vents/filters will also offer peace of mind and increase safety.

Balance Your Humidity Levels

We recommend maintaining indoor humidity levels around 30 to 50 percent. If you need someone to install a dehumidifier or swamp cooler, we are here for you!

To learn more about our HVAC services, contact us online or call today!