Two Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home

Did you know that the quality of the air inside your home is typically two to three times worse than the quality of the air outside? With most people today spending more than 70% of their time inside their home, improving indoor air quality is more important than ever. We'll show you how to work with your HVAC contractor for pro-install products that will improve your air and some plug-and-play options that can help you one room at a time.

What is Indoor Air Quality and Why is it Important? 

Indoor air quality, which you’ll commonly see abbreviated as IAQ, refers to the quality of the air inside a dwelling. The quality of the air you breathe inside your home directly correlates to your overall health, especially if you’re among the 50% of Americans that suffer from respiratory illnesses or sensitivities.

What Are the Heath Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality? 

Even if you aren’t diagnosed with allergies, asthma or another respiratory disease, you may be experiencing symptoms associated with poor indoor air quality, such as: 

• Headaches 
• Fatigue 
• Dizziness 
• Eye Irritation 
• Nose & Throat Irritation

All these symptoms can be caused by exposure to microscopic particles in the air. Organic compounds, metals, combustible particles and other microscopic particles act as irritants every time you breathe, and a standard HVAC air filter may not be as effective as you think it is.

Indoor Air Quality by the Numbers 

You breathe up to 2,000 gallons of air a day and with each breath, you are taking in bacteria, viruses, fungi, mites, allergens, chemicals and other pollutants. In fact, indoor air pollution ranks within the top five list of environmental dangers and poor indoor air quality has attributed for more than 3.8 million deaths globally, according to the World Health Organization, with 340 million of those being asthma sufferers and 800 million of those being allergy sufferers. 

Health Benefits of Clean Indoor Air 

When the air you breathe is free and clear of all these pollutants and irritants, you’ll experience several health benefits and even increase your lifespan. Some of the most noticeable benefits include:

• Improved Mental Function 
• Better Sleep Quality 
• Improved Digestion 
• Younger, Healthier-Looking Skin 
• Lower Risk of Stroke, Heart Disease and Diabetes 
• Lower Medical Costs 
• Increased Lifespan 

How Can I Improve My Indoor Air Quality? 

Fortunately, indoor air quality is something that’s easy to improve, either with pro-install air purification and ventilation products or with plug-and-play products. Even if you don’t have respiratory problems today, taking action to improve your indoor air quality can help keep everyone in your home healthier by preventing the spread of germs and bacteria.

Pro-Install IAQ Products to Talk to Your HVAC Contractor About 

Imagine walking into your home, taking a deep breath, and knowing that the air you’re filling your lungs with is free of bacteria, allergens, and other pollutants. Not only are whole-home, in-duct systems effective, but they’re easy for your HVAC contractor to add to your existing HVAC system. Talk to your contractor about your concerns and they’ll guide you toward the IAQ products that are right for you.

Air Purification & Sanitation Products 

Lasting relief from allergies and asthma starts with whole-house air purification and sanitation. Your HVAC contractor can make recommendations for air purification and sanitation solutions to meet your specific needs. Talk with your contractor about whether UVC, Active UV or Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization products are right for you. 

Filtration & Ventilation Products for Your HVAC System 

Dilution is the solution to pollution. In other words, proper ventilation intentionally introduces outside air to help protect and improve indoor air quality. Your HVAC contractor can install fresh air ventilators, exhaust fans, air cleaners, and more to help promote healthy breathing inside your home. Inside, make sure that you’re choosing a MERV 13 air filter in your HVAC system. 

Humidity Control Products 

Ideally, the humidity in your home should stay between 30% and 60%. When humidity levels are outside of this range, you have a breeding ground for germs and pathogens. Your HVAC contractor can let you know whether a dehumidifier or humidifier is right for you. 

Ready to talk with an HVAC contractor about the right pro-install products for your home?

Fill out this contact form, and an HVAC contractor will reach out to you for a custom experience. 

Plug-and-Play Products To Improve Indoor Air Quality 

Do you want to start improving the air quality in your home right away? There are some simple plug-and-play products that don’t require professional installation, making them a perfect choice if you are renting. Portable air purifiers, dehumidifiers and humidifiers can be set up in a matter of minutes and are a great solution if you’re renting or in a space temporarily. The main drawback to any plug-and-play product is that they can only be used in one room at a time. 

Portable Air Purifiers 

Portable air purifiers are very effective in removing airborne allergens and bacteria from the air, but unlike pro-install products, they only work in a small area. They are a great choice in a bedroom, home office, living area, or other room where you spend a significant amount of time.  

Portable Dehumidifiers & Dehumidifiers 

When your house is too humid or too dry, portable dehumidifiers and humidifiers can be an ideal solution, especially in basements and attics. Keep in mind that portable dehumidifiers and humidifiers only work in one room at a time, and they require a bit of daily maintenance with loading or unloading water.  

Learn More About the Air Quality in Your Home 

Interested in learning more about indoor air quality and the steps you can take to make the air you breathe as healthy as possible? Talk to an HVAC contractor about your climate, any current health concerns, and the current state of your air quality to discover the indoor air quality solutions that are right for you.