The rising pollen count, sneezing, throat irritations, and other miserable symptoms can take the joy out of the singing birds, blooming flowers, and the spring’s warmer weather. Fortunately, there are several ways you can address your home’s air quality to breathe easier and improve your overall health. As you get ready to “spring forward,” don’t forget to use these indoor air quality tips.
How to Freshen Up The Air in Your Home This Spring
Upgrade Your HVAC Air Filter
Standard heating and air conditioning filters are designed to safeguard your HVAC equipment against dust and debris. They don’t remove pathogens and other microorganisms that reduce the quality of your air. Invest in high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that are designed to boost air quality. These filters have MERV ratings that range from 1 to 12. The higher the rating, the better the filter is at removing tiny particles from your household air. Make sure you replace your filters at least once every three months.
Improve Ventilation
When your home’s air isn’t properly ventilated and circulated, it becomes stale, humid, and odorous which can aggravate allergy symptoms. Running exhaust fans for a couple of minutes after cooking and showering can help alleviate these. If you experienced window condensation during the winter months and are still spotting it in spring, talk to an HVAC technician to find out the best mechanical ventilation system for your home.
Keep Humidity in Check
Mold and dust mites love high humidity. Repair any leaks in your roof, basement, and plumbing to prevent them from adding unnecessary moisture to your indoor air. If you see bulging or bubbling paint, dark stains on ceilings, or any other high humidity signs, install a dehumidifier.
Don’t Leave Your Windows Open
It’s hard to resist the urge to open your windows to let in the fresh spring breeze. However, opening windows allows access for allergens such as pollen. It’s better to keep them shut and breathe the filtered air inside your home.
Adopt Smart Vacuuming Techniques
Clean your home regularly using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. Turn your thermostat fan to “ON” while vacuuming and let it run for 15 minutes to trap the dust sent airborne. Afterward, switch it back to “AUTO.”
Use Greener Cleaners
Harsh cleaners can release gaseous contaminants. Instead, use non-toxic cleaners such as natural cleaning agents.
Don’t Forget Spring HVAC Service
Your HVAC system picks up dust and debris during regular use. If left unchecked, these particles will degrade your air quality and impair your system’s efficiency. Spring and fall are the ideal times to schedule system maintenance so that a qualified technician can carry out A/C and furnace repair, tune-up, and cleaning before he or she gets fully booked in the summer and winter.
For more expert HVAC tips on improving indoor air quality in your Castro Valley or East Bay Area home, contact us at B.A. Morrison.
Since 1990, we’ve provided exceptional HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance, remodeling, and other home maintenance services. Our employees are trustworthy, honest, and experienced. We remain dedicated to satisfying our customers from their first phone call to the installation of their product or any service call. Call us today at 510-538-9817, and we’ll be happy to help.
