Indoor Air Quality
When you set your thermostat, your heating or cooling system kicks on. Now, your Clarksville, MD, area home is the perfect temperature.
But what good is that if the air makes you wheeze?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found most Americans spend about 90 percent of their time indoors. Unfortunately, pollutants can be two to three times more concentrated inside versus outside. That’s because most modern homes are heavily insulated, leaving little room for ventilation.
At Environmental Systems Associates, we know indoor air quality (IAQ) is just as important as climate control. As such, our team takes a holistic approach to your home comfort. We want healthy air for our neighbors in Fulton, MD, and surrounding communities.
Environmental Systems Associates is a trusted name for providing top-notch heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services. Our knowledgeable experts are here to assist with your next project.
We offer convenient financing options that make it possible for you to purchase the equipment your family deserves. Call us today for a free consultation.
Common Factors That Impact Indoor Air Quality
The air we breathe has a massive number of particles. Many are harmless, but others are not. Mold, dander, and other irritants can trigger respiratory symptoms for people with allergies or asthma.
Common signs of poor IAQ include:
- Poor ventilation
- Damp environment
- Pest infestation
Change Your Air Filter!
The air filter in your furnace, air conditioners (AC), or heat pump helps boost IAQ by catching dust and debris that pass through it. That’s why it’s important to change your air filter at least every 90 days—more so if you have pets or someone with respiratory issues in your home.
A neglected filter will become clogged and begin to lose its filtration abilities. Additionally, your HVAC system will provide weaker ventilation. This means standing water will dry much slower, inviting mildew and mold.
How Seasonal Maintenance Helps With Indoor Air Quality
Keeping your heating and cooling equipment in top shape helps it run efficiently and last longer. But on top of that, it’s great for your indoor air quality.
Before the start of the season, your expert will check for issues like a cracked heat exchanger or a refrigerant leak. Doing so helps ensure no pollutants are entering your home. Your technician can also inspect your ducts for excess dust or pest infestation.
For your health and safety, they will clean the condensate drain, coils, and other components that tend to get dirty. Finally, maintenance allows your heat pump or air conditioner to regulate humidity at peak capacity.
A great way to stay on top of maintenance is to join one of our Membership Plans. Save money on repairs, parts, and service. Plus, you’ll always jump to the front of the line when you need our assistance. Sign up today!
How Do I Know If My Home Has Unhealthy Air?
Poor indoor air quality affects different people in different ways. For instance, a resident with a mold allergy will likely fare worse in a damp home. The symptoms can also vary based on what type of contaminants are in the air.
You or other members of your household may experience:
- Coughing
- Congestion and nosebleeds
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
Dehumidifiers Can Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
If you have a humidity problem at home, dehumidifiers are an excellent solution. They convert airborne moisture to liquid water that you can easily dispose of down a drain.
For healthy indoor air, humidity levels inside your home should be between 30 and 50 percent. Excess humidity leads to mold growth, triggering allergy and asthma attacks.
Signs of excess humidity include:
- Window condensation
- Mold growths or musty odors
- Wall paint bubbling
Also, if you have a wet basement, consider upgrading your sump pump or buying a supplementary one.
Do I Need a Humidifier?
In the dead of winter here in Maryland, the weather can get pretty dry. Humidifiers provide a counterbalance, adding humidity to the air for increased comfort.
Does the air in your home feel dry? Here are some signs:
- Chapped lips or dry skin
- Nosebleeds, congestion, and worsened cold symptoms
- Damaged wood furniture, floors, or instruments
Whether you need a whole-house humidifier or a portable one for one part of your home, our experts can help you find the perfect anecdote.
Call Today for Expert HVAC Service
Need HVAC installation, repair, or maintenance services in the Clarksville, MD, area? You can trust our specialists at Environmental Systems Associates to get the job done right. Call our office today at 410-381-7991 or request service online.