How to Improve the Air Quality in Your Home

Have you ever stepped into your home and felt the air was a bit off—perhaps it feels stuffy, or there’s an unexplained odor lingering around? You might be surprised to learn that the air inside your home can be more polluted than the air outside.  

Indoor air quality can be two to five times worse than outdoor air, and in extreme cases, up to 100 times more polluted. Considering we spend about 90% of our time indoors, this is a significant concern.

Poor indoor air quality can have serious health implications for you and your family. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 3.3 million deaths occur yearly due to indoor air pollution. This staggering number highlights the importance of ensuring the air we breathe at home is as clean as possible.

In this guide, we’ll explore common indoor pollutants, how they affect your health, and actionable strategies to improve the air quality in your home. We’re proud to be the trusted HVAC provider for customers in Clarksville, South Boston, Halifax, and surrounding areas. We’re here to help improve the air quality in your home year-round!

Common Indoor Air Pollutants

Understanding what pollutes the air inside our homes is the first step toward improving it. Several common pollutants can compromise indoor air quality, often without us even realizing it.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are chemicals that evaporate at room temperature, releasing harmful gases into the air. They’re commonly found in household items like paints, varnishes, cleaning products, and even some furniture. According to the EPA, indoor levels of VOCs are often up to ten times higher than outdoors.

Health effects from VOC exposure can range from short-term irritations, such as headaches, dizziness, and throat irritation, to long-term effects like liver or kidney damage. To reduce VOCs in your home, opt for low-VOC or VOC-free products and ensure proper ventilation when using items that emit VOCs.

Solutions Heating & Cooling can help improve your home’s ventilation system, ensuring that any VOCs present are efficiently removed from your indoor air.

Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10)

Particulate matter refers to tiny particles suspended in the air. PM2.5 and PM10 are particles with diameters less than 2.5 and 10 micrometers, respectively. Sources include cooking fumes, smoke from candles or fireplaces, and dust.

These particles can penetrate the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. A study published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease found that exposure to PM2.5 is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. To reduce particulate matter, use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and regularly replace HVAC filters. We install high-efficiency air filtration systems that can capture these tiny particles, significantly improving your indoor air quality.

Related: Ultimate Guide To Choosing the Right HVAC Air Filter for Your System

Mold and Mildew

Mold thrives in damp environments and can release spores into the air. Common areas for mold growth include HVAC systems, sometimes ductwork, bathrooms, basements, and around leaky pipes. Health effects of mold exposure include allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and chronic respiratory issues. Keeping humidity levels between 30–50% and fixing leaks promptly can help prevent mold growth.  

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced by burning fuels. Faulty heating systems or poor ventilation can lead to CO buildup. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, and nausea, and high levels can be fatal.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning each year. To prevent CO exposure, install CO detectors on every floor and ensure regular maintenance of heating systems.

How Poor Air Quality Affects Your Health

Understanding the health implications of poor indoor air quality can motivate us to take action. The effects can range from immediate discomfort to serious long-term health issues.

Short-Term Effects

Short-term exposure to indoor pollutants can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as respiratory issues like coughing and sneezing. Headaches and dizziness are also common, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. These symptoms are often mistaken for common colds or allergies, making it easy to overlook the real cause.

Long-Term Effects

Prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants can lead to chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis, cardiovascular diseases, and even an increased risk of cancer. Prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants can significantly increase the risk of serious health issues.

Certain populations are more vulnerable, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Ensuring good indoor air quality is especially important for protecting these groups.

Effective Strategies to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Now that we know what’s polluting our indoor air and how it affects us, let’s explore practical steps to improve it.

Increase Ventilation

Improving ventilation is one of the most effective ways to enhance indoor air quality. Opening windows when the weather permits allows fresh air to circulate and dilute indoor pollutants. Using exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom helps remove contaminants directly from the source.

At Solutions Heating & Cooling, our HVAC experts assess your home’s ventilation and recommend improvements to ensure adequate airflow.

Control the Source of Pollution

Reducing pollutants at the source is crucial. Choose safer products by opting for natural cleaning supplies and low-VOC paints. Store chemicals properly by keeping them sealed and in well-ventilated areas. Regular maintenance of appliances can prevent emissions of harmful substances like carbon monoxide.

Regular Cleaning

Keeping your home clean reduces dust and allergens. Vacuum regularly using cleaners equipped with HEPA filters, which trap small particles more effectively. Wash linens, curtains, and upholstery frequently to eliminate dust mites and other allergens.

Use Air Purifiers

Air purifiers are a great addition to your home, especially if you struggle with allergies or live in areas with high pollution. HEPA filters can capture 99.97% of airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns, while activated carbon filters are excellent for tackling odors and VOCs. Plus, our experts can evaluate your system to see if it’s compatible with a ducted air cleaner, offering a more efficient solution for your whole-home.

Control Humidity Levels

Maintaining proper humidity levels helps prevent mold and mildew growth. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and promptly fix any leaks. Aim to keep indoor humidity between 30–50%. We specialize in installing humidity control solutions to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels.

Incorporate Houseplants

Certain houseplants can help purify the air by absorbing pollutants. Plants like spider plants, peace lilies, and aloe vera are known for their air-cleaning abilities. While plants can help, they should complement other air quality improvement efforts rather than replace them.

Additional Tips for a Healthier Home

To wrap up, here are some extra steps you can take to ensure a healthier living environment.

No Smoking Indoors

Secondhand smoke is a major indoor pollutant. Designate outdoor smoking areas to keep your indoor air clean and educate household members about the risks of indoor smoking.

Avoid Synthetic Fragrances

Air fresheners and scented candles can emit VOCs. Use natural alternatives like essential oils or simmering herbs. Always ventilate when cooking to reduce particulate matter from smoke and fumes.

Test for Radon

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground. Use a radon test kit, available at most hardware stores, to check your home. If high levels are detected, mitigation systems can be installed.

The Role of HVAC Experts

Improving indoor air quality isn’t a one-time task; it’s an ongoing process that benefits greatly from professional expertise. As a leading HVAC company in Halifax, VA, we’re ready to help you every step of the way.

Expert Services We Offer

• Air Quality Assessments: We’ll evaluate your home’s air quality and identify specific pollutants affecting your environment.
• Customized Solutions: From air purifiers to ventilation improvements, we’ll tailor solutions to your specific needs.
• HVAC Maintenance: Regular check-ups ensure your system isn’t circulating pollutants and is operating at peak efficiency.
• Humidity Control: We install humidifiers or dehumidifiers as needed to maintain optimal humidity levels.  

Improving the air quality in your home is one of the best investments you can make for your health and well-being. By understanding common indoor pollutants and taking proactive steps to reduce them, you can create a safer, more comfortable living environment.

Remember, you don’t have to tackle this challenge alone. If you’re in Clarksville, South Boston, Halifax, Chase City, Danville, Lynchburg or the surrounding areas, give us a call. Let’s work together to make your home the clean, healthy haven it should be.