IAQ health — that is, indoor air quality — has never been so important, especially if you live in a newer, airtight home that has been constructed to maximize your HVAC unit’s efficiency. In an older home, minute cracks allow for the intrusion of fresh air and the escape of stale air. But in newer residential construction, the same stale air gets recirculated, and though it goes through an air filter in the HVAC system, pollutants can still build up and affect your IAQ health.
Allergies and IAQ Health
Your main concern with the buildup of airborne pollutants in your home is allergies. Most homes have common allergens floating around, including:
- Pet dander
- Pollen
- Insect particles (dust mites and others)
- Dust
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Many people are allergic to some or all of these airborne pollutants. They suffer from symptoms that include sneezing, coughing, runny noses, irritated nasal passages, and burning eyes. Those with illnesses such as chronic bronchitis or asthma may find their conditions aggravated by these pollutants.
Solutions
Although homeowners may never completely rid their home of airborne pollutants, you can improve IAQ health by taking these steps:
- Use a good-quality HVAC air filter, with a MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) rating of between 8 and 12. The filter should be pleated and made of cotton or polyester to trap more pollutants. Fiberglass filters will not improve your IAQ health. Filters that are rated higher than this may drag down your airflow so your HVAC has to work harder.
- Change the air filter often. A dirty filter will compromise your HVAC system efficiency, and it will not trap pollutants as well.
- For pet dander, brush your pets outdoors before allowing them inside. Vacuum the home frequently.
- For pollen, brush off clothing and pets before either enters the home. Put clothing in a laundry bag right after entering the home; wash it as soon as is feasible.
- Air out items with VOCs, such as pressed-wood products, before you bring them inside. Air out dry-cleaned clothing.
For more tips on improving IAQ health, contact Ace Hardware Home Services, serving Dayton and the surrounding area since 1978.
