Your HVAC FAQ’s For Fresher Air This Upcoming Year
It’s that time of year again when it’s time to start thinking about kicking off the new year on a high note, and that includes home care. What better way is there to start the year by ensuring you, your family, and pets have the freshest air possible?
Besides the usual pet dander, dust mites, and mold, there may be toxic air particles you don’t even know about lingering in your home. Allow these HVAC FAQ’s to prepare you, so your home has the freshest air possible this upcoming year.
Take Charge With These Tips For Improving Air Quality
A great way to tackle air quality in your home starts with a regular cleaning schedule. Dust can contain mites, lead, and other toxic particles that lead to low-quality air. Dusting and vacuuming at least once per week with a HEPA filter vacuum will make sure both dust and pet dander doesn’t worsen your air quality.
HEPA filters work to trap dust and toxins, so they don’t get blown back out the exhaust. You’ll want to follow up with a microfiber mop on all hard surfaces to pick up anything the vacuum missed too. Another great way to improve air quality is by allowing stale air out and fresh air to flow into your home.
The easiest way to do this is simply by opening your windows or doors, even during the colder winter months. If you happen to live in a city with pollution, you may want to coordinate airing out your home when traffic slows down to prevent more toxins from coming in. Another option for getting fresh airflow through your home is installing a trickle vent or exhaust fan.
A trickle vent is a small vent, usually, in a cooking area, that filters fresh air from outside into your home. An exhaust fan can be used to either push fresh air into your home or suck stagnant air out of your home. All of these options will work towards improving air quality. One unexpected hidden danger when it comes to air quality is common household products.
These products can contain synthetic fragrances chocked full of toxic chemicals. These can be found in cleaning products, air fresheners, scented candles, dryer sheets, detergents, and more. Many of these fragrances are derived from petroleum and haven’t been tested for safety. The products that have been tested have raised concern, so it’s best to stick with household products scented with natural fragrance.
Why Changing Air Filters Consistently Improves Air Quality
A key factor of maintaining your HVAC system for the freshest air quality is keeping up with changing air filters. Air filters are of simple construction, consisting of only a cardboard frame with a fiberglass or pleated fabric in the center. A clean air filter packs a powerful punch when it comes to indoor air quality. Your HVAC system sucks air through the fiberglass or fabric part of the filter before it has a chance to be re-circulated throughout your home. These air filters trap unwanted particles from the air and keep your system running smoothly.
Professionals suggest checking your air filters once per month to ensure buildup doesn’t accumulate in your ductwork. This not only keeps your system running smoothly for maximum air quality, but will also keep your electric bills down. When your system doesn’t have to work as hard, the fan runs less, meaning a lower bill. It’s easy to check your air filter. Remove the filter and hold it up to a light source. If you aren’t able to see light through the fiberglass or fabric center, then it’s time to change your air filter.
When In Doubt, Opt for Duct Cleaning
As your HVAC system circulates air through your home, dust and grime start to build up inside your air ducts over time, for this there are duct testing services. As your system pushes air through dirty ducts, it pulls pollutants along with it, which are then re-distributed throughout the home.
In order to make sure your family and pets are breathing the cleanest air possible, it’s important to schedule an air duct cleaning every 3-5 years.
If you have a mold problem or smoke indoors, you may need them more frequently. Air duct cleaning will ensure the freshest air possible in your home, while also keeping your HVAC system working like a finely oiled machine.
Trust 4 Seasons Heating & Cooling
Family owned and operated in Reno since 2008, 4 Seasons Heating & Cooling keeps your family’s safety and comfort a top priority year-round. Their trusted technicians are licensed, insured, and background checked while offering fast, reliable, top quality workmanship.