As allergy season rushes upon us, we must prepare to fight back. A great way to do so is to maintain good indoor air quality in your home and business.

The Effects of Bad Air Quality

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is the quality of air that you take in at home or your workplace. According to the EPA, an American spends 90% of their time indoors. Due to this, the importance of IAQ in your home or business is significant. If ignored, poor IAQ can cause long and short-term health factors. Some of those include:

  • Sneezing
  • Sinus congestion
  • Coughing
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Eye, throat, and skin irritation

It is reported that 3.8 million people a year die from illnesses caused by poor indoor air quality. Most people won't notice the problem until it is too late. Indoor air quality changes frequently throughout the day. Every time you turn on your heating or cooling system, it circulates dust, pollen, and bacteria throughout the air in your home causing your IAQ to decrease. Signs of poor indoor air quality include:

  • Dirty central air conditioning and heating equipment
  • Stuffy and smelly air
  • Moldy or mildew smell around the home
  • Mold and mildew growth in books, shoes, cracks, and other items
  • Moisture on walls and windows

Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Cleaning Your Home

This may seem like a no-brainer, but when we recommend cleaning, we don't mean dusting every 8 months. We recommend establishing a regular cleaning routine in your home to improve your IAQ. This can include:

  • Vacuuming regularly
  • Wiping down surfaces with natural chemicals
  • Washing bedding, drapes, and other items that tend to attract allergens, especially if you have pets
  • Removing clutter around your home to prevent dust build-up

Improving Ventilation

Another way to increase the indoor air quality is by properly ventilating your home. By improving your home's ventilation you are reassured that your home's indoor air quality will be at its peak. You can do this by:

  • Changing or cleaning your home's AC filters
  • Having your vents cleaned regularly
  • Using air cleaners and Ultraviolet germicidal cleaners

At the end of the day, don't let allergy season hit you like a truck. Guarantee you're doing everything in your power to help by improving your indoor air quality at home and work. Doing so will not only better your home but also your well-being.

If you need help noticing the signs of poor indoor air quality, contact ACTexas today! We are equipped to help you with all of your air quality needs so give us a call or fill out the schedule form on our website.