Most people think that if their house is clean, and their ducts are clean, their home’s air quality is great. But there are so many things we don’t think about that alter the air quality of our homes -- like that brand new couch with the stain retardant or that air freshener you’re using. Those chemicals are decreasing the air quality in your home. What can you do? Luckily the answer is... plenty.
Quick Tips to Improving the Air Quality of Your Home
Clean Your Filters Regularly
Before you go out and invest in an expensive air cleaner, make sure you’re doing everything you can to ensure air quality. Changing your air filters regularly is an easy inexpensive way to reduce the amount of bacteria, mold, and dust you’re breathing in. Most filters should be changed once a month but during times of high use (like Florida summers) check week three to see how it looks. If there’s a lot of dirt collected, change it even if it hasn’t been a full month. It’s not healthy nor does it allow your system to run efficiently when the filter is blocked.
If you are seeing a lot of dust collecting, it might be time to get your ducts cleaned.
Clean Your Air Ducts
Cleaning your air ducts periodically is part of regular A/C upkeep but it also helps reduce the amount of particulate matter that gets caught there. In Florida’s hot climate you’ll also commonly see mold and other bacteria in them. Plus duct work is usually in the attic and, in some bungalows, you’ll find it under the house. These spots are naturally dirty and dusty so cleaning periodically is a must if you want good air quality.
Use Plants
While all plants clean the air, there are a number of them that clean more efficiently. You may not recognize them by name but you’ll recognize them by look. You’ll commonly see them in doctor’s offices and other office buildings. Good choices are the Golden Pothos, Ficus trees, and the Peace Lily.
But don’t overwater plants. Not only is this bad for the plant, the water that is not absorbed by your plants will enter the air and make already humid air even more so.
Keep Your Scents Natural
I might hear a lot of grumbles when I say this but air fresheners, while they may smell fantastic, are just more chemicals in the air. If you like scented air try some fresh flowers around your home or cinnamon sticks simmering on the stove.
Keep a Healthy Level of Humidity
This is a funny statement living in Florida but one of the reasons we advocate using air conditioners, besides the comfort of cooler temperatures, is that it takes some of the humidity out of the home. Humidity breeds mold and, here in the sunshine state, that happens very quickly.
If you’re concerned about air quality allow us to come out and take a look at your home. We can check your A/C equipment and make sure your ducts look good. Call Easy A/C today at 813-COLD-AIR (265-3247) or schedule online.