6 Causes for Poor Indoor Air Quality and How to Prevent It

You are currently viewing 6 Causes for Poor Indoor Air Quality and How to Prevent It

Some of the factors affecting the air in your home are beyond your control. However, you can remedy several common causes of poor air quality. Learning techniques to improve air quality can help you breathe easier and stay healthier.  

1. Stagnant Air

If the air in your home feels stale or dry, you may need to improve air circulation. While running an air conditioner can help, it’s better to open your windows and run a fan to bring fresh air indoors and push contaminated air outdoors. Open your home’s windows for 10 minutes each day.

2. Dirty Air Ducts

Never neglect the importance of keeping your home dust-free. Contaminants in your home can enter your ducts. Dust and debris will coat the interior duct walls and contaminate any air flowing through the ducts. Regular duct cleaning will remove contaminants from your treated air.

3. Clogged Air Filters

Install a clean air filter in your HVAC system every 30 days for better energy efficiency. This practice will also ensure your treated air goes through proper filtration before getting pushed out into your home. The filter removes allergens, dust, and other contaminants for cleaner indoor air.

4. High Humidity

If your indoor spaces feel humid or damp, there’s a good chance that you have poor indoor air quality. Humid or moist air encourages the growth of mold, bacteria, and other unseen health threats. Installing a dehumidifier can help when you don’t want to run your AC system.

5. Gas and Fuel Leaks

Poor air quality is common in the winter since people keep their doors and windows closed. If your furnace has a natural gas leak or leaks carbon monoxide through a damaged heat exchanger, these gasses will build up. A fall furnace tune-up will prevent this situation.

6. Dirty Dryer Vents

Over time, your dryer vents will become clogged with lint. If you don’t schedule professional vent cleaning, this problem causes exhaust from the dryer to back up. As a result, your indoor air will collect lint, dust, and other contaminants. Proper vent cleaning removes blockages and ensures the hot exhaust gets pushed outside.

Get Help From the Pros

Chesapeake Property Services provides air duct cleaning and other home maintenance services to help you maintain a healthier indoor environment. To schedule service, call (410) 661-4235 or contact us online.