When we are in our own homes, we don’t necessarily realize
how many allergens and contaminants we’re breathing in. While you may feel like
the air indoors is safer than outside, our indoor environments can contain
pollutant levels that are greater than the levels outdoors. While it may not be
something we think about often, indoor air quality is vital to you and your
family’s health. Is it really possible to have more pollutants and allergens
indoors than outside? Absolutely! The best HVAC company at the Lake of the Ozarks knows that insufficient ventilation, increased use of synthetic
materials and a lack of air filtration all contribute to this problem. Royal Heating and Air is here to help you improve your indoor air quality.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency:
- On average, Americans spend about 90 percent of their time indoors. This is a lot of time spent where the concentrations of some pollutants are sometimes two to five times higher than typical outdoor concentrations.
- People who are usually most susceptible to the adverse effects of pollution tend to spend more time indoors.
- Some indoor pollutants have increased in recent decades due to energy-efficient building construction and increased use of synthetic building materials, furnishings, personal care products, pesticides and household cleaners.
It’s a continuous cycle. Don’t continue to recirculate these
contaminants through your HVAC system, or redistribute dust and allergens
around your home when you vacuum. If you have proper air ventilation ad
filtration, you won’t be circulating all of those contaminants.
Air Filtration Guide
HVAC Air Filters – It’s important that you change your HVAC
air filters every 30-60 days, or as recommended by your system’s specific air
filter. You should never wait more than 90 days to replace the air filters. A
dirty air filter means the air you are breathing is more than likely dirty. A
dirty air filter also restricts airflow, which can cause frozen evaporator
coils and other problems with your HVAC.
HEPA Filtration – Use a vacuum with High Efficiency Particle
Air (HEPA) filtration. If you vacuum regularly with a vacuum that has HEPA
filtration, you will help keep your home and the air in your home clean. You
can also outfit your HVAC system with HEPA filtration, but your system will
probably need professional modification to accommodate the larger filter.
Exhaust Fans – If you don’t have exhaust fans in your
kitchen, bathroom and laundry room, it’s a good idea to get them professionally
installed. Exhaust fans remove moisture, odors and stagnant air to help improve
indoor air quality. Exhaust fans also help to prevent high humidity and mold
growth in your home.
Minimize Smoke – By reducing smoke in your home, you will
reduce air irritants. If you have sensitivity to allergens, it’s vital to not
have any cigarette smoke in the house. It’s also important to minimize or
reduce wood fire smoke. It’s important to inspect your chimneys, fireplaces and
vents at least once a year.
Duct Cleaning and Sealing – Getting your air ducts
professionally cleaned and sealed helps keep your air clean and it also
helps improve the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Houseplants – Why not add some green to your house while
supplementing your indoor air filtration system? Houseplants that have natural
air cleaning abilities include:
- English Ivy
- Boston Fern
- Peace Lily
- Spider Plant
These are just a few steps you can take to improve your
indoor air quality. While we may not want to believe it, a lot of times the
indoor air quality in our homes is filled with more allergens and pollutants
than outside. Royal Heating and Air is your source for the best indoor air
solutions for your family’s health. From preventative maintenance to
installations, the best HVAC company in Lake of the Ozarks is here to help you.
Call 573-480-4313 to schedule an appointment today!
Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"
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