Pollutants like dust, dirt, mold, and pollen can cause expensive problems. Fortunately, you can improve your indoor air quality by cleaning regularly, adding ventilation, and not using volatile organic chemicals.
Cleaning Regularly
You should dust and vacuum at least twice per week to keep contaminants like dust, dirt, pet dander, and pollen from building up in your home. Use a damp cloth to clean air registers and ceiling fans, and remember to clean your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans as well. Rinse your outdoor HVAC system with a garden hose to remove pollen, grass clippings, and twigs. However, don’t use a power washer, because it could damage your HVAC system.
Adding Ventilation
Pollutants will always accumulate instead of escaping if your home doesn’t have enough ventilation. Keep furniture and carpeting away from your air registers, and use a mechanical ventilation system with a filter to bring fresh air into your home. Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) work like heat pumps to heat or cool air before it comes into your home. An ERV can help you remove stale air and keep the air in your home clean and comfortable without wasting energy.
Avoiding VOCs
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can cause cancer and other health problems. Many products contain these chemicals, including paints, varnishes, air fresheners, pesticides, hair products, cleaners, and detergents. To avoid many VOCs, use natural products when possible. Essential oils make great air fresheners, and you can make furniture polish with only water and lemon juice. If you must use products that contain VOCs, be sure to ventilate the area well by opening windows while using them and afterwards.
Bodine-Scott Air Conditioning Co. is a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer with more than 55 years of experience. We can help you install, maintain, and repair a variety of heating and air conditioning equipment. Call us anytime at (361) 883-9900 for expert service from one of our friendly technicians.
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