Optimize Indoor Air Quality for a Clean, Healthy Home

Air filters vary by size and HVAC system. Each type may have a different suggestion for replacement from the manufacturer. In general, we suggest inspecting your HVAC air filter every month. Use a flashlight and a vacuum to make sure nothing is in the way of proper circulation. If dust and debris seem to be blocking airflow, it is a good idea to replace your filter at the one-month mark. During the most extreme weather periods of the year, it is likely your air filter will be dirtier due to heavier use. For HVAC systems that have a thick air filter of anywhere from 5 to 9 inches, you may be able to change the filter every six months as long as it looks clean at each monthly inspection. 

Indoor air quality refers to the purity of the air you breathe when you are indoors. Because of the lack of circulation and ventilation in some homes, air quality can be up to five times worse inside your house than it is outdoors on an average day. We recommend having your IAQ tested to determine if you have healthy indoor air, or if you could benefit from one of our in-home air purification systems. Air purification is particularly helpful if you have any residents with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory concerns. 

Your IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) is determined by a variety of factors. Regular dusting and vacuuming have been shown to greatly improve the quality of indoor air. However, a good housekeeping routine alone will never be enough to eliminate all indoor air pollutants. With the help of an air filtration device, you can eliminate even more of the tiny particles in your home air, including those too small to capture with a vacuum. Ask our air quality consultants to give you an evaluation of your home's indoor air to determine if you need to add an indoor air filtration unit. 

Air duct cleaning is a less frequent but critical part of a healthy HVAC system. In general, we recommend having your air ducts professionally cleaned every three to five years. A thorough cleaning can remove dust, debris, mildew, and mold that are currently circulating in your air vents. Some cleaning methods can last from six to eight years between cleanings but may depend on your individual preference. Other reasons to have your air ducts cleaned outside of routine servicing may include severe allergy or health concerns, moving to a new residence, or a mold and mildew smell when your HVAC system is running. 

When smoky air and air pollutants have you staying indoors, it is common to wonder about the safety of running your HVAC unit. Because your AC is a closed unit, it is completely safe to run your home air conditioner on a smoky day. In fact, when air pollution is high outside, it is often advised to stay inside and out of the bad air quality. Staying indoors will allow you to continue to breathe clean air and keep you cool from the hot and thick pollution in the outside air.