Leonard Splaine 6 Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality This Fall for a Healthier Home

As the crisp fall weather rolls in, many of us are spending more time indoors, enjoying cozy moments with family and friends. However, the increased time inside can lead to reduced air quality in your home. This can contribute to allergies, respiratory issues, and a general decline in your overall well-being. Fortunately, there are several simple and effective steps you can take to ensure your indoor air remains clean and healthy throughout the season. Here are six tips to help improve your indoor air quality this fall, creating a healthier environment for you and your family.

1. Replace Air Filters Regularly

One of the most important steps in maintaining good indoor air quality is to regularly replace your HVAC system’s air filters. These filters trap dust, allergens, and other particles, preventing them from circulating throughout your home. However, when air filters become clogged, they can no longer efficiently filter the air, allowing pollutants to pass through and potentially lowering the quality of your indoor air.

For optimal results, check your air filters monthly, especially during the fall when your HVAC system may be working harder due to fluctuating temperatures. Consider upgrading to high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which are designed to trap even smaller particles, including mold spores and pet dander.

2. Keep Your Ductwork Clean

Over time, dust, debris, and allergens can accumulate in your home’s air ducts, which can then be circulated throughout your living space every time your heating or cooling system operates. Having your ductwork professionally cleaned can significantly reduce the amount of dust and allergens in your home, improving the overall air quality.

Fall is the perfect time to schedule a duct cleaning, especially if you’ve noticed an increase in dust or if household members are experiencing more frequent allergy symptoms. Cleaner ducts mean cleaner air, allowing you to breathe easier all season long.

3. Use a Humidifier to Maintain Balanced Humidity Levels

As temperatures drop in the fall, indoor humidity levels can also decrease, leading to dry air that can irritate your respiratory system, skin, and eyes. On the flip side, too much humidity can encourage mold growth and dust mites. Striking the right balance with a humidifier can help maintain comfortable humidity levels in your home, reducing the risk of respiratory discomfort and preventing the spread of allergens.

Aim to keep indoor humidity between 30-50% for optimal comfort and health. Consider using a humidifier during the fall months to keep the air in your home from becoming too dry. Many modern humidifiers allow you to adjust the humidity settings to your liking, ensuring the perfect balance of moisture in the air.

4. Ventilate Your Home Properly

While fall may tempt you to keep your windows shut to keep the cool air out, proper ventilation is essential for maintaining healthy indoor air quality. Poor ventilation can lead to a buildup of pollutants, moisture, and odors, making your indoor environment less pleasant and more harmful to your health.

Whenever possible, open your windows for at least 10-15 minutes a day to allow fresh air to circulate. If outdoor conditions don’t allow for this, consider using exhaust fans in areas like the kitchen and bathroom to remove stale air and pollutants. You can also invest in a whole-house ventilation system, which can help ensure a steady flow of fresh air throughout your home without compromising energy efficiency.

5. Keep Carpets and Floors Clean

Carpets, rugs, and floors can harbor dust, dirt, pet dander, and other allergens that contribute to poor indoor air quality. To minimize the amount of pollutants in your home, be diligent about vacuuming and cleaning your floors, especially in high-traffic areas.

Using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter can make a significant difference by capturing particles that traditional vacuums may leave behind. For added protection, consider deep cleaning carpets and rugs at least once a year, and mop hard floors regularly to reduce dust and dirt buildup.

6. Invest in an Air Purifier

An air purifier is an excellent investment for improving indoor air quality, particularly if you or a family member suffers from allergies or respiratory issues. Air purifiers are designed to filter out pollutants such as dust, pet dander, smoke, and even certain chemicals, providing cleaner and fresher air inside your home.

Look for a purifier equipped with a HEPA filter to trap fine particles and allergens. Place the purifier in the rooms where you and your family spend the most time, such as the living room or bedroom, for maximum effectiveness.

Indoor Air Quality Expert in Great Falls, VA

At Leonard-Splaine, we understand the importance of maintaining clean, healthy air in your home, especially during the fall season. Schedule your fall HVAC inspection today and ensure your home’s air quality is the best it can be. Contact us at Leonard-Splaine for more information, or check out our current promotions here. Call now at (703) 494-2855!