HVAC FAQ’S To Ensure Cleaner Air This New Year
There’s nothing quite like going into the new year fully prepared for what lies ahead, and that includes home care for many. Stagnant indoor air, especially in the winter, can cause an increase of dust mites, dander, and mold, which can leave you feeling less than stellar. Ensure you and your HVAC system are prepared for the upcoming year by learning different ways to improve your air quality with these HVAC FAQ’s.
Proactive Tips For Improving Air Quality
There are many ways homeowners can work toward improving air quality in their homes this year. One way to limit the amount of exposure to unfavorable air particles is to keep a clean home. Focus on vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum once or twice per week and keep clutter, where dust can collect, to a minute minimum.HEPA filters work to trap dirt and toxins, so they don’t get blown back out of the exhaust. You’ll also want to follow up with microfiber mop on all hard surfaces after vacuuming to pick up any remaining dust. Adding floor mats at all entryways to your home can cut back on allowing more toxins in as well since pollutants are often carried in on people’s shoes.
There are a few lesser-known places allergens hide as well. Changing filters on vents, like your kitchen or dryer, will also work toward improving air quality. It is recommended that these filters are changed every few months. Bed sheets also attract and hold allergens, so you’ll want to wash them regularly in hot water to kill dust mites. Using dust-mite protective coverings on pillows and mattresses will cut down on exposure as well.
Another way to improve air quality is to invest in an air purifier. These can be especially helpful if you have a furry friend that’s carrying pet dander and bringing in other toxins from outside. They work to trap the unwanted dander and pollutants while circulating the clean air. Opening a window to encourage airflow, even in the colder months, and will also allow stale air out and fresh air into your home. Circulating clean dry air is key to improving air quality.
Tips For Changing Air Filters
One key element in taking care of your HVAC system is learning about what air filters do and to change them regularly. Air filters may seem simple in construction, made of only cardboard and fiberglass or pleated paper cloth, but they are a key component of your HVAC system.
These filters trap contaminants in the air, but also ensure your HVAC system keeps running like a finely oiled machine. During this process, air from the home is drawn into the system and forced through the fiberglass or cloth, which removes pollutants before flowing out into your home.
Checking to see if your air filter needs to be changed once per month will ensure your air stays clean and your HVAC system stays in tip-top shape by ensuring contaminants don’t build up in your ductwork. It also ensures your system doesn’t have to work overtime, which can result in higher-than-expected electric bills. Changing air filters is easy. Take out the air filter and hold it up to a light source. If you’re not able to see the light through the fabric part of the filter, then it’s time for a fresh one.
Keep Your Air & HVAC System Clean With An Air Duct Cleaning
While your HVAC system does its job of circulating air through your home, it also collects dirt and debris on the inside of your ducts. The air that is pumped throughout your home is going past layers of pollutants on its way into your home if your system isn’t maintained properly.Professionals recommend air duct cleaning to be performed every 3 to 5 years to ensure your system runs as smoothly as possible. And within this time period as well, because doing it too often can damage the ducts as well.
If you have a mold problem or if you smoke indoors, you may require cleaning more frequently. Not only will your air be cleaner after an air duct cleaning, but you’ll also ensure a long life for your HVAC system.
Trust Barker Heating & Cooling
Serving the Livermore area since 1998, family-owned Barker Heating & Cooling is your companion for a healthy home. Trustworthy and friendly technicians arrive on time, when it’s convenient for you, and provide honest recommendations with your best interest and budget in mind. From A/C & heating repair to a full furnace installment, Baker Heating & Cooling offers the safest possible service with high-quality materials at the best value.
