What Is Indoor Air Quality & Why Is It Important?

Mar 25, 2022 | Bexley, Air Filter, Blog, Dehumidifier, Humidifier, HVAC, IAQ, Indoor Air Quality, OH, Ohio

Have you ever heard the term Indoor Air Quality and wondered what it might mean or how it would apply to you and your home? Don’t fret. We want nothing but the best for you, your home, and your family. Bexley Heating & Cooling knows the importance of air quality and how it can affect our customers; therefore, we are discussing a few things referring to IAQ.

What is Indoor Air Quality?

Indoor air quality or IAQ references the quality of air inside or around a building structure. Air quality relates to the health and wellness of the occupants of that particular building. Understanding your home’s indoor air quality and how it can affect us is vital. Problems related to developmental growth and reduced productivity have been traced back to indoor air pollutants.

What Are the Immediate Effects of Indoor Air Pollutants?

There are a few primary air pollutants you can look out for. This includes irritation of the eyes, nose, or throat. On top of that, headaches, fatigue, and dizziness are other indicators. If you are suddenly experiencing any of these, perhaps you are experiencing an allergic reaction to something new that has entered the premises. If this is the case, then as yourself, new indoor plants, pet dander, mold, mildew, dust particles, or dry air may be the culprits. The type of air pollutant causing issues may also only cause reactions after continuous exposure and not necessarily just a one-time occurrence. So don’t rule out any possible air pollutants if you have had it around the vicinity just because you did not react to it upon the first exposure. Everyone reacts to different things differently. Keep in mind that age and other preexisting medical conditions are factors that could also cause a flare-up.

What Are Long-Term Effects of Indoor Air Pollutants?

Just because you may not notice an immediate reaction does not mean that an air pollutant won’t cause damage in the long run. This is why it is important not to ignore mold or mildew issues. The long-term effects of indoor air pollutants are known to cause respiratory or heart-related problems. Again, you will want to keep in mind that while one thing may cause reactions for one individual, it may not for another. With that being said, flare-ups or no flare-ups, keeping the air clean is necessary for everyone’s health long-term.

How Can I Improve Indoor Air Quality Within My Home?

There are multiple indoor home air cleaners options, from table-top models to whole-home systems. Depending on the level of humidity in your home, you may also need to invest in a humidifier, dehumidifier, or both. Each home is different, so assessing what you need for your lifestyle and the current air quality is important. You can call Bexley Heating & Cooling with any of your IAQ questions. In the meantime, let’s go over the benefits of each system.

  1. Humidifiers- Humidifiers assist with dry air during the winter season. Due to the season, the humidity levels may be too low, resulting in dry air in your home. Dry air can cause various health issues such as breathing and sleeping issues, bloody noses, or dry skin. Remember, the ideal humidity level in your home should be around 30% – 50%. Not to mention, we offer a wide range of humidifiers that fit your lifestyle as well as your budget.
  1. Dehumidifiers- Now, if the level of humidity in your home is too high, this will result in overly moisturized air. Too much moisture in the air will encourage mold and mildew growth. This is detrimental and can cause a plethora of health issues. If this is something you are experiencing, a dehumidifier will help with this. As a plus, they can also assist with unpleasant odors.
  1. Air filters- Air filters play an essential role in your home’s HVAC system. Their purpose is to capture unwanted particles lingering in the air, such as unwanted dust, allergens, and pollen. A clean air filter plays a vital part in keeping air quality high in your home. Generally, we recommend these be changed out every 30 to 60 days.

Perhaps you are looking into an air cleaning system, humidifier, dehumidifier or need your air filters changed. If so, Bexley Heating & Cooling can help! We feel privileged at the thought of serving you, your home, and your family. We are also open 24/7 should an immediate need arise concerning your HVAC system. So give us a chance and call Bexley Heating & Cooling today at (614) 924-7856, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!