Fall HVAC Tips to Improve Air Quality
The air inside our homes has the potential to harm us. The use of harsh household cleansers, mold and mildew growing on the walls, lingering cigarette smoke and even ordinary dust can irritate our respiratory systems and cause headaches, dizziness and nausea.
It’s easy to clear the air when the weather cooperates: simply open the windows and let the breeze blow through. Now that fall has arrived, rain and chill can prevent this simple fix; plus our heating system may be covered in dust which may exasperate the problem further. Our HVAC professionals have put together the following tips to improve your indoor air quality in and around your home.
Change Your Air Filters Regularly
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Dust can irritate your eyes, nose, lungs, and even your skin. These discomforts will be alleviated when you make it a habit to regularly change your air filters. The filters should be changed every 30 days, or more often if they appear dirty. If your senses are still irritated, it could be that you need to upgrade your system to one that can prevent smaller particles, like pet dander and pollen, from entering your home. Talk with a professional about upgrading to a more efficient heating system.
Clean Your Ducts and Air Vents
Asthma and allergies can be aggravated by buildup in home ventilation systems, and the dust and particles trapped inside move easily from room to room as air travels through your ductwork. Fortunately, improving the air quality inside your home can be as simple as having your ducts cleaned. Getting the work done before the cold weather really sets in will also help save you money, as clean ducts help your heating systems work more efficiently.
Use a Dehumidifier during the Cooler Months
In the summer, using your air conditioner helps reduce the moisture inside your home, which in turn controls dust and other allergens. Your heating system does not offer the same benefits, which is why you should switch on a dehumidifier in the fall. Using the exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom, or cracking open a window while showering or cooking, will also help decrease the amount of humidity in the air. Controlling for moisture not only helps reduce the amount of irritants present in your home during the winter months, but it benefits your heating system as well by reducing damage.
Consider a Heating System That Includes Ultraviolet Light Technology
If you or members of your family are plagued by allergies or asthma, and neither cleaning the air ducts or changing the filters regularly is making enough of a difference, consider making use of ultraviolet lamps. Rather than remove particles from the air, these lamps kill airborne bacteria and viruses. Investing in a heating system that combines these ultraviolet lights with high efficiency air filters can improve your air quality and help you feel better when winter’s chill sets in.
Point Bay Can Help Improve the Air Quality in Your Home
Point Bay Energy Heating and Cooling offers a variety of service agreements that include an annual tune-up and inspection of your heating system. Be prepared for autumn’s cooler temperatures by calling (732) 349-5059 or contacting us online today.