The air you breathe every day makes a huge difference in the way that you feel. Whether you or someone in your family has allergies or not, poor air quality inside your home is something you need to address as soon as possible. There are several ways you make the air inside your house better, and following these steps can help get you started.

Know and Identify Potential Problems

The first step you should take is to discover the cause, or causes, behind the poor air quality in your home. There are three types of household pollutants which may be harming you: combustion pollutants, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and triggers for allergies or asthma.

• Combustion pollutants. Improperly vented stoves, water heaters, fireplaces, and dryers are the main source of combustion pollutants. This produces harmful gases and particles like carbon monoxide and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Many regular household objects can release gases into the air of your home causing potential health issues. The most common culprits are paint, varnish, household cleaners, solvents and adhesives. 
• Triggers for allergies or asthma. There are many contributing factors for allergies and asthma including mold, mildew, pet dander, dust mites and pollen. These triggers are often found throughout your home and are often difficult to pinpoint the main source of the trigger.

Check for Humidity Levels or Musty Smells

Use your nose to find areas of your home with high humidity by smelling for musty odors. Mildew, mold, and mites thrive in areas with high moisture content. You should install a dehumidifier in areas of your home which have a potential to become too moist such as your basement and bathroom. On the other hand, areas of your home which are too dry can cause more severe allergies and asthma symptoms. Your best bet is to try to keep the moisture level in your home between 30 and 50 percent.

Use and Change Your HVAC Filters on a Regular Basis

Air filters on your appliances and HVAC system can greatly improve the quality of your indoor air. Try to purchase products which use quality filters and be sure to follow the recommendations of the manufacturers when it comes to replacement. Always have a certified HVAC technician inspect your HVAC filters for any signs that they may need replacing, and it is a good idea to schedule an annual inspection. 

Action Heating & Air Inc. is a locally owned and operated HVAC contractor who has been serving customers in Northern Kentucky for over 40 years. Whether you need heating, air conditioning or ventilation services, you can trust Action Heating & Air Inc. to give you the best service possible. We offer a full range of installation and serving including emergency repairs. Call 859-331-2641 to find out why our customers love us.