What Causes Poor Air Quality?

Dirty air filters are a common source of poor air quality. Regardless of the structure or building, air filter replacement must be done on a routine basis. It is recommended that air filters be changed once per month, but this depends on the environment.

Both indoor and outdoor pets cause dander. Dander is skin flakes in an animal’s fur that can cause allergic reactions. Allergies can occur in humans and pets, causing sneezing, congestion, and wheezing. If a home has carpeting or rugs, this increases the chance of pet dander staying in the home. 

Simply inspecting an air filter is not likely to give an accurate air quality estimate. Dust particles and pollen are typically quite small and hard to see. When the air filter has not been changed, these particles will clog the screen, making it difficult to benefit from newly produced air. 

The best way to tell if an air filter needs to be changed before the month is up is to hold the screen directly in front of a light source. When the light shines through the filter, tiny dust particles are more prominent. For those who have pets, carpets, and fabric upholstery, air filters may need to be replaced more often.

Air Purifiers Benefit Everyone

An air purifier, also known as an air cleaner, removes contaminants from indoor settings. This can increase the quality of air and minimize indoor pollutants. Household members with allergies or who are susceptible to getting sick often use air purifiers throughout the home.

There are several different air cleaners, including portable purifiers and air scrubbers. Commercially graded air cleaners can be used as a stand-alone unit or affixed to an HVAC system. 

Portable air purifiers can be moved from one room to the next with little effort. These devices are not tied to central air conditioning and work independently regardless of whether the HVAC system is running. Typical particles removed from portable air purifiers include dust, smoke, bacteria, pet dander, and viruses. 

An air scrubber is known for removing gasses from the air. Unlike most purifiers, an air scrubber works by first spraying the air to get rid of particles. Filters are not usually required, and one can clean entire homes. One can even rent certain air scrubbers daily to reduce or eliminate mold.

Which Household Chores Get Rid of Contaminated Air?

Routine cleaning is essential for quality air. While certain chores may not seem relevant for air pollutants, dirt and mildew can impact overall health.

Floor chores are the most effective tasks for both maximizing and minimizing dust and dander particles. If a broom or duster is not regularly cleaned, more particles will kick into the air. Before and after cleaning, it is important to clean the specific tools needed.

If the floor is neglected, this can also create poor quality air. Cracks in the floorboards and small sections between doors or hallways are especially susceptible to dust. Sweeping once a day can get rid of hidden particle buildup. 

Dusting is very similar to sweeping but may have an immediate impact on air quality. Overhead fan blades are a frequent source of dust accumulation. This is especially harmful because the fan will disperse dust directly into the air.

Vacuuming should be done at least once a week, depending on the household. If there are indoor pets, this may need to be done twice as often. Once vacuuming is completed, emptying the bin or bag will ensure that the next use will not fling old particles into the air. 

About AAA Modern Air

Quality air control helps both adults and children breathe easier regardless of the season. Call AAA Modern Air in Dania Beach, FL for indoor air quality services, including HVAC maintenance.

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