Did you know that indoor temperature is not the only function of your HVAC unit? The system can also be used to maintain your home’s air quality. Here's what you need to know about recognizing indoor air quality problems and what you can do to improve your living environment.

Seeing Dust?

Poor indoor air quality often causes eye, nose, and throat irritation and can also be at the root of headaches, sinus problems, asthma, allergies, and even some respiratory infections.

What experts call indoor particulate matter are inhalable particles that in some cases can cause serious health effects. They can include outdoor particles that travel indoors and particles that originate from sources inside the house through cooking, fireplace use, and the burning of candles.

Studies have shown that there are respiratory risks associated with indoor air pollutants in the form of settled house dust. Researchers found a variety of chemicals in common house dust including those from cleaning agents, oils, and fragrances, and associations were found with homeowner incidents of asthma, wheezing, and/or allergies.

If you want your Jacksonville home’s indoor air quality to be as safe as possible, here are some simple steps you can take.

Change Your Filter

Using high quality air filters and replacing them at least twice a year is the single best way to improve air quality in your home. The American Lung Association recommends replacing filters even more frequently, every three months, especially if you have pets or allergies.

Keep Windows Closed 

While it's tempting to open a window or two and let in cool air, especially at night, keeping windows closed keeps pollutants at bay. And since humidity can create the perfect breeding ground for dust mites, closing the windows reduces allergy triggers. The goal is to keep the air inside your home moving and cool, so you might try running your air conditioner on the recirculate setting. A smarter ventilation strategy can also help you improve indoor air quality.

Use UV products 

UV air purifiers protect your HVAC system’s indoor coils by preventing them from collecting mildew, killing off mold and bacteria before they can make their way into the air of your home. A bonus is that using these products also increases your system performance.

Use IAQ products

Air cleaners and air filters not only remove pollutant sources, they can also be an effective supplement to source control in ventilation. Portable air cleaners, also known as air purifiers, filter the air in single rooms or smaller areas. HVAC filters are designed to filter air throughout the home, helping your HVAC unit maintain ideal indoor air quality.

Breathe Easy

When it comes to the health and safety of your family, indoor air quality plays a huge role. If you want to keep your Jacksonville home’s indoor air fresh, clean, and pure, the team at David Gray Heating and Air can perform a full inspection for you followed by recommendations for repairs, replacements, additions, or adjustments to your current HVAC system. Contact us today to learn more.