3 Habits That Negatively Affect IAQ in Sterling, VA

It’s possible that your habits are lowering the indoor air quality (IAQ) in your Sterling, VA home. The good news is that choosing to do things differently just might clear the air. Let’s look at three habits that can ruin your indoor air quality.

1. Smoking Indoors

Smoking inside your home contributes to low IAQ. The American Lung Association states there are more than 7,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke, of which at least 69 are toxic and can cause cancer.

Chemicals like ammonia and carbon monoxide enter the air when you smoke. This can have a terrible effect on your IAQ while affecting your lungs and lungs of those around you.

Vaping isn’t safe, either. It’s true that vaping products often contain fewer chemicals than cigarettes. But vape smoke can contain nicotine and formaldehyde that can get into your air as well as your lungs.

2. Never Changing the Air Filter

Your HVAC system has a filter that works to keep your air free of dust and other pollutants. Having a significant amount of these particles in the air lowers the IAQ.

Checking the filter is a simple maintenance task you can perform every few weeks. You can tell if this component is too dirty just by looking at it.

Some manufacturers suggest changing the air filter every 90 days. But factors like the filter rating and whether you have certain pets can affect how often you actually need a new one. Check the filter monthly and hold it up to the light. If you can’t see through it, a new filter is needed.

3. Ignoring Ventilation

Good ventilation helps remove stale air, moisture and indoor pollutants. That’s why you might want to occasionally open a window or door to let fresh air inside your home. You also might consider installing an exhaust fan in some rooms, or a home ventilator.

If your habits are ruining the IAQ in your home, we can help. Give Vernon The Heating & Cooling Specialist a call to learn about our IAQ services.

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