How to Measure Your Level of Residential Indoor Air Quality
Residential indoor air quality: It sounds like something that should have an established measuring system, something that you should be able to assign a ranking to between, say, one and ten. But the reality is that such a concept is impossible to put into numbers in many respects.
Every family is different, as is every home, and what may constitute perfect residential indoor air quality for one might not be for another. Certain factors affect families in similar ways, though, so there are some solid indicators of high or low air quality.
Leave it to your experts at Furnace Doctors, your Twin Cities HVAC contractor, to explain more!
Your Family's Health
Yes, believe it or not, your family's overall well-being can indicate high or low residential indoor air quality!
Humidity, for instance, is one aspect that makes up your air quality and can greatly affect your family's health. High humidity can contribute to mold problems in the home, which can cause everything from respiratory distress to allergic reactions.
Low humidity isn't any better from a health standpoint and can be the culprit behind headaches and stuffy noses. Keeping humidity levels regulated is critical.
A healthy family can indicate that your residential indoor air quality is where it needs to be. Otherwise, it can signal that you might need a bit more than a trip to the doctor—you'll need an HVAC contractor's help!
Dust Levels
We all hate dusting, but if you've got to do this chore in excess, it might mean that your residential indoor air quality is lacking. Your air filtration system is designed to capture dust particles, and according to Bob Vila, if they're not of a high enough quality, they can contribute to dust formation.
What's in our air affects more than how we breathe but how your living space looks, too, so if your home's a dusty disaster, your local HVAC services might be able to help boost your residential indoor air quality and remedy the dust problem.
How the Air Feels to Breathe
Perhaps the most subjective of all indicators of residential indoor air quality, breathability is nonetheless important. You deserve to live in a comfortable space—not stuffy or with heavy-feeling air. If you and your loved ones aren't feeling at ease in your own home, it's time to call an HVAC contractor.
The Smell of the Air
Unpleasant smells are an obvious sign that your indoor air quality needs some work. Smells can come from particle pollutants, chemicals, refrigerant leaks, or pests, and while you may have become accustomed to the scents, letting them continue could be a risk to your home and family.
Dangers of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Poor air quality is a problem worldwide, and polluted air is linked to numerous health concerns. Exposure to pollutants can have a significant impact, and it's found that the air quality inside the home is often two to five times worse than outdoors. There are a range of health effects that can occur, and a few of the most common ones include:
Allergies
Allergic reactions occur when the immune system is over-sensitized from allergens. Not having proper indoor air filtration makes the body more susceptible to contact with particulates that can trigger allergy symptoms.
Aggravated Asthma
Because those with asthma are more sensitive to airborne particulates, if your home's air quality is suffering, chances are you and your family members who have asthma attacks will be more prone to triggers.
Headaches
Headaches can come on for multiple reasons, including poor air quality. From carbon monoxide to poor ventilation, living in a highly polluted area can make individuals more prone to them.
Fatigue
Your body's energy depends on your respiratory function. Breathing in harmful particulates like smoke, smog, or pollutants makes it more challenging for your system to function properly and will affect energy levels.
Excess Wear & Tear on Your HVAC
Aside from physical issues, indoor air quality can wreak havoc on your HVAC system. Your ductwork and filters need a clean space to ensure proper function. When debris and dust begin to accumulate inside them, this creates more strain on the system, forcing it to work harder to keep your home at the optimal temperature.
Furnace Doctors: Call Us to Get Your Air in Tip-Top Shape
Bad air quality is no small matter, and our team of HVAC contractors is here to bring great residential indoor air quality to where you live. For over 40 years, we have been providing affordable solutions our customers can depend on!
Improve your home's air quality today by contacting us online, or feel free to call our office today at 651-789-3082.