When it comes to understanding the importance of indoor air quality, think of it like this: your AC is your home’s lungs. Whatever air your AC breathes in, impacts the rest of your home and family.
While air pollution is commonly thought of as something that happens outside the home, the truth is that inside air has the potential to be five times more polluted. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency lists indoor air quality as one of the top health concerns in the United States. But, how do you know if the air quality in your home is unsafe? Are there any signs you can look for?
5 Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality
1. High Humidity
The optimal humidity level for your home ranges between 35-50%. Keeping humidity levels within this range helps ensure your comfort and prevents mold growth. When humidity levels are high, your home is at an increased risk for mold growth and mildew. While your AC is capable of removing humidity from the air, a dehumidifier may also be necessary. Learn how to recognize the four signs your Florida home needs a dehumidifier.
2. Excess Dust
Excess dust building up around your home is a glaring sign of poor indoor air quality. That’s because where there is dust, there are also dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens. If you’re seeing dust build up around your air vents and on surfaces, you need to take action. Learn more about how to keep dust under control.
3. Uneven Temperatures
Do you have a couple of rooms or floors that are always warmer than the rest of your home? If so, you’re not alone. Uneven cooling is a common problem for many Florida homeowners. Unfortunately, uneven temperatures can cause problems — like mold, mildew, and bugs — all of which threaten your home’s indoor air quality. If your home has many rooms or floors, you may want to consider installing a zoned AC system. This system allows you to create customized temperature zones throughout your home — which helps improve your home’s comfort, AC efficiency, and indoor air quality. Learn more about the benefits of installing a zoned AC system.
4. Mold and Mildew
If your home smells damp and musty, you should be alarmed. Even if you haven’t seen any mold growth, simply being able to smell it indicates a festering problem. Be sure to look for signs of mold growth in your home — starting in the bathrooms, kitchen, and any other places water is used — so you can quickly resolve the problem. Mold is not just gross, but dangerous for indoor air quality — especially if you suffer from allergies or asthma.
Related: Does Your Bathroom Exhaust Fan Need to be Replaced?
5. Respiratory Illness
Are you and your family sneezing and coughing? Do you get more headaches than normal? While these symptoms could be caused by viruses, poor indoor air quality can cause similar symptoms — especially if you have asthma, allergies, or an autoimmune condition. Respiratory problems can stem from forgetting to replace your air filter and an increase of allergens in the air. Remember to replace your air filter every 30 – 60 days.
Protect Your Home’s Air with Colman Heating & Air Conditioning
Are you worried about the air in your home? Our experienced technicians are here to help you find the right solution to improve your home’s IAQ. Don’t let your family suffer from dirty air. Call us if you need assistance ASAP, or to schedule routine HVAC maintenance.
24-HR Emergency Service: (321) 269-4565
