When someone mentions air pollution, the busy city streets of Jacksonville or the smog-filled skies of major cities in other areas come to mind. Admittedly, those are primary sources of pollution. However, we don’t see the most significant pollutants of all—our home.
What’s worse is the hot humidity in our area contributes to the poor air quality entering our home. As we switch from air conditioning to heating, we atMcGowan’s Heating & Air Conditioning want to discuss easy ways to improve air quality. They are simple solutions to ensure you breathe easier this fall and throughout all other seasons. Keep reading to see what we recommend for any homeowner in the Jacksonville area.
Why Indoor Air Quality is Important
Indoor air quality is important to your health. Poor air quality in your home can affect your life in significant ways. Some of the main symptoms of poor indoor air quality include:
- Off Season Allergies
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Worsening Asthma
- Recurrent Colds
Lead paint or asbestos in an older home increases the risk of severe side effects. But even if your home is new, it’s still worth having McGowan’s Heating & Air Conditioning test your air quality.
Common Causes of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Often, people think their home is their safe space. We never consider the air quality we breathe at home relaxing. We don’t consider how products to keep our house clean and functioning can contribute to a less-than-ideal indoor environment. The primary at-home pollutants and ways to solve them are:
Dust
The biggest issue in the home begins with dust particles.
If you want to lower the dust levels in your home, the simplest way is to remove areas where dust can collect. Keep your house tidy by vacuuming weekly, washing curtains and bedding regularly, and decluttering.
Mold and Mildew
There’s no denying it. Florida is humid. Combine humidity with your couch, chairs, carpets, and everything can feel damp, presenting the risk of mold or mildew. The steam generated in bathrooms can also provide a prime breeding ground for these allergens.
Ventilation fans can be switched on during and after a shower to help lower the risk of mold.
Dirty Filters
Your air conditioner has a filter to remove particles from the air. These filters remove common household pollutants. However, if they become dirty, they can stop working effectively.
To reduce the risk, clean your filters often. Our professionals at McGowan’s Heating & Air Conditioning will inspect and replace air filters as part of our professional air duct cleaning services when they go to your home.
Fumes
Gas appliances, fragrance candles, and even cleaning chemicals emit harmful fumes. Use fewer scented candles and strong cleaning products, and ensure gas appliances work efficiently to prevent issues. If the smoke filling your home stems from a fireplace, check to ensure the chimney is clean and discuss with us other ways to limit indoor smoke.
Solutions to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Not all air purification can be done with simple changes. For instance, pet dander is a common allergen, but who wants to eliminate their four-legged pal? In this situation, or if you’re still struggling with allergies and cold symptoms, consider professional air duct cleaning services to improve your air quality. If you need help with removing common home pollutants,McGowan’s Heating & Air Conditioning can help.
Improve Your Indoor Air Quality in Jacksonville, FL
Your home is your safe space. To alleviate any worry about indoor air quality, we are here to help you and other homeowners in Jacksonville and the surrounding areas.
See how McGowan’s Heating & Air Condition team can tackle professional air duct cleaning services and have you breathing easier quickly. For more information or to schedule a service call, contact McGowan’s Heating & Air Conditioning today!
Image credit: The Toidi / Shutterstock
