Your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ) is more important than you realize. The contaminants that build up in your air over time can cause all sorts of health issues, from allergies and asthma to more serious respiratory problems. How do you know if your indoor air quality is at safe levels, and if it’s not, what can you do to get it there? Here’s how to test for IAQ.
IAQ Monitors
An air-quality monitor is a great way to get an idea of your IAQ. It measures temperature and humidity, both of which can be indicators of poor air quality. It also measures your VOC levels, aka volatile organic compounds, which can be released into the air by a number of household items, be it air fresheners and fabric softeners or your walls and carpeting.
Then it measures CO2 levels to see if there’s enough oxygen in your home. If there’s not, you may need better air circulation. Finally, it measures the level of particles in the air to check for dust and other allergens.
In addition to an air-quality monitor, you should also keep a radon detector and a carbon monoxide detector in the house. Both CO and radon are substances which, if found, can be much more harmful. Therefore, it’s important to keep an eye on them to ensure your home’s safety.
Improving IAQ
Once you better understand your home’s indoor air quality, how can you improve it? Start by opening the windows. This improves air circulation, allowing clean, fresh air to replace the contaminated air in your home. Also change your HVAC system’s air filter regularly to make sure it’s removing contaminants.
If you’re really concerned about your IAQ, consider an air purifier. Using HEPA filters that would damage your regular HVAC system, air purifiers remove much smaller particles up to 99.97% of the contaminants in your home. By installing a whole-house air purifier, you can lower contaminant levels, improve circulation, and boost your IAQ considerably.
For help improving the indoor air quality in your home, contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services. We serve all of Dayton’s heating and cooling needs.
