It’s getting colder in Bucks and Montgomery counties. Soon your windows will be closed and you’ll be stuck inside. Since you’ll be breathing more indoor air over the next few months, it is important to ensure the air quality in your home is as healthy as possible.
There are many ways to improve the air you breathe. Some are simple, like routine maintenance and buying a few house plants; while others involve installing air purification systems. The solution that will work best for you depends on a number of factors including: air flow through your house, whether anyone in your home has health/respiratory issues, the number of pets you own, etc.
Regularly Clean & Inspect Your Furnace
Your furnace is one of the leading contributors of indoor air pollutants. Over the years, it builds up dirt and grime, which is then dispersed through your home. To avoid breathing in unhealthy heater particles, have a professional service your heater before the temperature drops.
Clean Your Home Often
Keep all of those irritants at bay with regular cleaning. Vacuuming the rugs and furnishings two to three times a week will eliminate toxins, pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. Don’t forget to clean your ceiling fans! Dusty fan blades will circulate allergens, dust, and other irritants around your home.
Check and Replace Your Filters Regularly
Your HVAC system is moving air constantly. As the filter gets dirtier, the system has to work harder. The harder it works, the more likely the system will need to be repaired. The filter should have an expected life expectancy on its packaging, but regardless should still be checked regularly to verify it’s not clogged. Be sure to spend a few extra dollars on HEPA style pleated media filters, as they are more efficient at blocking larger particulates.
Get a Few House Plants
Living plants and herbs produce oxygen and fragrant smells, which will cleanse the air in your home. A few suggestions include: aloe vera, bamboo, bromeliad, ferns, and yucca (all of which are pet friendly too!).
Invest In an Air Filtration System
Air filtration systems are an excellent investment to your home that filters the microscopic particles that are flying around your air. As an added bonus, these systems help your HVAC run more efficiently since the indoor air clean and nothing is getting stuck in the filters.
Install a Humidifier
The right amount of humidity is also important to the air your breathe. If your nose and throat feel dry, there probably isn’t enough humidity. More humidity also makes your home warmer!
For more information about cooling and heating options, call A&A Mechanical at 215-396-1525 to get a free estimate. We are licensed and insured HVAC contractors with more than 30 years of experience in HVAC tune-ups, repairs, and installation.