In general, the most effective way to improve indoor air quality is to eliminate individual sources of pollution or reduce their emissions. Air conditioning systems always work to give your home the perfect temperature all year round. But as they travel through all that air, they filter out some of those common air pollutants. Over time, your air filters fill up and stop doing their job.
Not only does that cause problems for indoor air quality, but it also wears out the air conditioning system, which can lead to costly repairs in the future. So, be sure to change your air conditioning filters regularly or sign up for an air conditioning service plan that normally includes a filter change, especially if you're prone to allergies or live in a metropolitan area with high levels of pollution. Sometimes, even regular vacuuming and dusting sessions can't keep your home clean, especially when the problem lies in the air circulating through your home. Air purifiers work with your HVAC system to trap much more than the standard dirt and dust that air filters capture during a cycle.
Air filters take the process to the next level by capturing pollen, pet dander, smoke, bacteria, and even airborne pathogens. Most air filters trap bacteria and other organisms up to a micron or even a third in size, meaning that many can eliminate potentially harmful pathogens, such as common cold viruses. Some air purifiers even kill bacteria and pathogens upon contact, providing your home with perfectly clean air. If your home feels constantly congested and you find it difficult to breathe in fresh air on a regular basis, a fan is often the solution.
These devices suck in fresh air while expelling stale air with each cycle, so you'll never have that feeling of congestion. Many fans also work with your HVAC system to reduce energy consumption by using energy from the exhaust air to condition incoming air. A carbon monoxide alarm can safely detect this dangerous gas and alert your family to its presence before it causes adverse effects or even death. Because poorly functioning appliances, ovens, or other fuel-dependent devices can sometimes cause unhealthy carbon monoxide buildup, install carbon monoxide alarms in your home, especially near bedrooms.
If you're concerned about the environmental quality of your home, consider investing in routine HVAC maintenance to ensure that your HVAC system works properly all year round.
