When did you last think about the air you breathe inside your home? As we transition from the hot days of August into the crisp early fall, it’s easy to overlook indoor air quality—but it’s more important now than ever. Whether battling late summer allergens or preparing for the cooler months ahead, improving indoor air quality can make a world of difference in your comfort and health.
Here’s how to easily ensure your home is filled with fresh, clean air this season.
1. Prepare Your Heating and Cooling System for Fall
As August winds down, it’s the perfect time to give your heating and cooling system a little TLC. Seasonal maintenance isn’t just about keeping your home comfortable—it’s critical to maintaining indoor air quality.
Start by scheduling a late summer check-up for your system. This should include inspecting air filters, cleaning the coils, and ensuring no mold or mildew buildup. These tasks are essential because a well-maintained system operates more efficiently and helps keep dust, allergens, and other pollutants from circulating in your home.
Additionally, consider having your air ducts cleaned. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in your ducts, which can reduce the effectiveness of your air filters and compromise the quality of your indoor air. A thorough duct cleaning can help ensure the air circulating through your home is as clean as possible.
2. Upgrade to High-Efficiency Air Filters
If you haven’t switched to high-efficiency air filters, now is the time. With fall right around the corner, outdoor allergens like ragweed are about to be at their peak. These allergens can easily find their way into your home and exacerbate allergies or respiratory issues.
High-efficiency filters, such as those with a MERV rating of 13 or higher, are designed to trap smaller particles, including pollen, dust mites, and even some bacteria and viruses. By upgrading your air filter, you can significantly reduce the amount of these pollutants in your home’s air.
But don’t forget—regular replacement is key. During late summer and fall, it’s a good idea to check your filters every month and replace them as needed. A clogged filter won’t do its job, and your indoor air quality might suffer as a result.
3. Invest in an Air Purification System
While your heating and cooling system works hard to filter out larger particles, other contaminants in the air might require additional help. This is where an air purification system comes in.
Fall is an excellent time to invest in an air purifier if you or your family suffer from allergies. Air purifiers can target and remove various pollutants, including pet dander, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contributing to poor indoor air quality.
There are several types of air purification systems to consider. UV light purifiers, for example, are effective at killing bacteria and viruses, while ionizers can help reduce dust and other particulates. A whole-home air purifier is an even more comprehensive solution, working with your heating and cooling system to clean the air throughout your house. Each type has its unique benefits, and understanding these can help you choose the best system for your home.
4. Enhance Ventilation as Temperatures Drop
As temperatures cool in early fall, you may be tempted to seal your home and keep the outside air out. However, ventilation is crucial to maintaining good indoor air quality.
To strike a balance, try ventilating your home during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening. Open windows or use exhaust fans to help circulate fresh air. This will help reduce the concentration of indoor pollutants that can build up as your home becomes more sealed off during the colder months.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Indoor Air Quality This Season
Improving your indoor air quality doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking these four simple steps—preparing your heating and cooling system, upgrading your air filters, investing in an air purifier, and ensuring proper ventilation—you can breathe easier knowing your home’s clean and healthy air.
As you gear up for the fall, now is the time to act. Contact Homeworks, Heating, Air, Plumbing & Drains to schedule an inspection or consultation. Our experienced professionals can guide you through the process and ensure your home’s air is as fresh as possible. Breathe in the difference today!