How to Improve Indoor Air Quality?
Good indoor air quality starts with heating and air conditioning systems that work at peak performance. A modern system will also be energy efficient. Circulation of clean air is necessary for a healthy environment.
[bctt tweet=”Circulation of clean air is necessary for a healthy environment. #SANAIRIAQ” username=”SanAirClean”]
People spend much of their time indoors. They work in office buildings with controlled air circulation. They use heaters and air conditioners at home.
Filters can Help Improve Indoor Air Quality
Clean air in buildings that depend on climate control circulation systems starts with good HEPA (high-energy particulate absorber) filters that catch all pollutants.
Harmful particulates that should not be inhaled include:
- Smoke
- Animal hair and dander
- Dust and dirt
- Pollen
- Mold and mildew
- Fungus
- Odors from cooking, paint and chemicals
- Airborne bacteria and viruses
These are the most harmful pollutants found in the air. Pollen is especially potent in the spring when flowers start to bloom in many areas. Grass and trees also produce pollen. People working in office buildings or living in multi-unit residential buildings often sneeze and cough from pollen allergies. Good filtration will keep pollen out of circulation in most climatically controlled buildings.
[bctt tweet=”Good filtration will keep pollen out of circulation in most climatically controlled buildings.” username=”SanAirClean”]
Airborne bacteria circulate in all weather conditions. Industrial and commercial HVAC systems must have filters that catch and eliminate these pollutants. This is most important in health care facilities. Offices, restaurants and other buildings open to the public must also have HEPA filters that keep the air clean at all times.
Home HVAC systems should have clean filters. These filters can be changed in the early spring and fall to provide the best indoor air. Ultra-violet filter systems are also used in homes and some residential buildings to attract and destroy pollutants.
Smoking should always be relegated to areas outside of buildings. Commercial buildings and homes have smoke alarms.
Simple Cleaning Can be Enough to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Indoor environmental quality also depends on regular cleaning. Dust mites are everywhere. Dander and animal hair accumulate in carpeting and on furniture. Carpets, furniture and hard surface floors should be vacuumed and cleaned on a regular basis.
Dirt and grime on windows affect air quality. Windows need cleaning and walls occasionally need scrubbing. Requirements are different for various buildings. Health and dental care facilities must have the cleanest environment. Food preparation areas usually have systems that suck kitchen odors into vents.
Office buildings have professional cleaning crews with checklists for cleaning procedures. Hotel employees also have a standard checklist for cleaning. Hard surfaces are cleaned and carpets are vacuumed on a daily or weekly schedule in most commercial and industrial buildings.
Clean Air Ducts Also Help Indoor Air Quality
If your home or office has poor indoor air quality, check ducts. This is the system that carries heated and cooled air into rooms. Dirty ducts will spread harmful particulates including mold and mildew in the cooled or heated air.
[bctt tweet=”If your home or office has poor indoor air quality, check ducts. ” username=”SanAirClean”]
Breaks and tears in ducts can provide entry for insects and even rodents. Ductwork should be checked, repaired or replaced when necessary.
Humidity and Indoor Air Quality
The humidity level in a home or office building is often responsible for the room’s comfort level. Recommended humidity level should be about 45%. Homes and buildings in the drier areas have humidifiers to keep the air slightly moist. This helps to control electrostatic shocks when people touch metal objects.
Dehumidifiers are necessary for people in states such as Florida with high humidity levels. This prevents mold and condensation on walls and windows when warm, damp air meets a cooler surface.
Monitor indoor air quality carefully for good health at home and at work. Set your home thermostat at comfortable levels, check ducts and change filters when necessary.
For over 20 years, we have been helping people who are working on improving indoor air quality by providing high quality workmanship with unparalleled customer service to both residential and commercial customers. Our staff of professionals are dedicated to serving your specific needs from the moment you contact us until the completion of your remediation project. Visit our website or contact us today for more information or to schedule your mold remediation consultation.
