Keeping the air inside your Sonora, CA, home clean and healthy is a challenging, ongoing chore. Residents are constantly tracking in dust, pollen, and other allergens, and pets are always releasing dander. However, these aren’t your only indoor air quality (IAQ) concerns.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air can be two to five times more contaminated than the air outside. Read on to find out why and to learn what you can do about it.
Gaseous Chemical Contaminants and Your Indoor Air
When active, your HVAC system filters incoming air to extract hair, carpet fibers, dirt, and other particulates. This optimizes operating conditions for heaters and air conditioners. It also provides limited IAQ benefits.
However, standard air filters can’t extract volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other gaseous contaminants. These chemicals are commonly off-gassed by building materials, including:
- Interior paint
- Flooring adhesives
- Flooring materials
- Unsealed particle board
There are also many VOCs and other gaseous contaminants that residents add to their indoor air by using chemical-laden air fresheners, surface cleaners, and self-care products among other things.
Bacteria, Mold, and Other Dangerous Pathogens
Every time that someone sneezes in your home, micro-fine aerosols enter your indoor air. This becomes especially problematic when residents have communicable illnesses. Much like VOCs and other gaseous contaminants, airborne bacteria and viruses pass through HVAC air filter mesh. Mold spores, mildew, and other fungi do, too.
Why Outdoor Air Is Cleaner
Simply put, the pathogens, allergens, and gaseous contaminants outside your home have somewhere to go. When they’re indoors, they’re often trapped by tight building envelopes. With no way to disburse, indoor contaminants become increasingly concentrated over time.
What You Can Do to Improve Your IAQ
An easy way to freshen your indoor air is by turning your HVAC system off on mild-weather days and opening up your windows and doors. You can also invest in a whole-house fan to improve natural air change, upgrade your HVAC air filter, or install integrated HVAC system accessories. For instance, air purifiers can deactivate or collect the airborne contaminants that standard HVAC air filters can’t.
We help residents of Sonora, CA, optimize their IAQ for clean, fresh-smelling, and all-around healthy homes. We offer exceptional air conditioning, furnace, and ductless mini-split installation, maintenance, and repair services. We also provide cutting-edge IAQ solutions. Get in touch with Comphel Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. today to learn more or schedule an appointment.
