6 Most Common Types Of Indoor Air Pollutants

In picturesque Louisiana, we’ve grown accustomed to intense humidity. However, the quality of the air you breathe inside your home plays a crucial role in your overall well-being. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can have a negative effect on your comfort and health.

Foulks Southern Air has provided Hammond and nearby areas with reliable HVAC services for years. We believe it is essential to understand the importance of clean air and how to maintain it, especially in our Louisiana homes. Read ahead to learn about IAQ, air pollutants and how you can better protect yourself against them.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

The air we breathe indoors can contain various pollutants. When these contaminants are left unaddressed, they may lead to health problems and affect the longevity of your HVAC system. Maintaining good IAQ is not only about comfort but also about safeguarding your health and investment.

Let’s delve into the reasons why your Hammond indoor air quality is vital to your home:

Healthier Living

Clean air promotes better respiratory health, reducing the risk of allergies, asthma and other breathing issues. It also supports overall well-being, ensuring you and your family can enjoy a healthier life.

Enhanced Comfort

Breathing in fresh, clean air makes your home a more comfortable and enjoyable space to live in. Maintaining healthy indoor air quality eliminates unwanted odors and reduces indoor humidity levels, thus creating a pleasant environment.

Longevity Of HVAC System

It’s recommended to change your air filter every one to three months. Regular maintenance of this device and other IAQ systems helps your HVAC system operate efficiently. This process extends its lifespan and saves you money on repairs and potential replacements.

Energy Efficiency

When air filters aren’t changed regularly, it can cause your unit to work harder to cool your home. A well-maintained HVAC system consumes less energy, leading to lower utility bills and a reduced carbon footprint.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants

To maintain good IAQ, it’s crucial to identify and address common indoor air pollutants. These impurities can vary from household to household, but some are more prevalent than others. Here are the most common types of air pollutants you may encounter if you neglect your IAQ:

Dust And Dust Mites

Dust particles can accumulate in your home, harboring microscopic pests known as dust mites. These pollutants can trigger allergies and asthma to those within your home. Our team can provide reliable IAQ solutions to reduce this particulate in your home.

Mold And Mildew

High humidity levels or water leaks can lead to mold and mildew growth. This bacteria can cause respiratory issues and damage your home’s structure if not corrected. Our team can perform reliable indoor air quality testing in Hammond and surrounding areas to determine what pollutants are inside your home.

Pet Dander

If you have pets, their dander can become airborne and worsen asthma and allergies. Homeowners with pets may need to change their air filters more frequently than usual to maintain the device’s efficiency.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are emitted by certain household products like paint, cleaning agents and air fresheners. These compounds are known for causing headaches, nausea and respiratory discomfort.

Pollen

Pollen from outdoor plants can enter your home and exacerbate allergies. When you trust our team with your IAQ issues, you can expect solutions that minimize the effect of allergens in your home.

Tobacco Smoke

Smoking indoors releases harmful chemicals into the air, posing severe health risks to smokers and non-smokers. To avoid the negative impact tobacco smoke can have on the body, it’s crucial to not smoke indoors.

The Role Of Air Filters

One of the most effective ways to combat indoor air pollutants is by using air filters. Filters are designed to trap particles and contaminants, preventing them from circulating in your home. To maximize the benefits of clean oxygen, it’s essential to maintain these HVAC components regularly.

Here are some tips to better maintain clean air with AC filters:

• Follow your HVAC manufacturer’s recommendations for replacing air filters.
• Select air filters with the appropriate MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating for your needs. Higher MERV ratings trap smaller particles but may require more frequent replacement.
• Ensure your home is well-sealed to prevent outdoor pollutants from entering.
• Maintain proper ventilation to circulate fresh air and reduce indoor pollutants.

Turn To Foulks Southern Air

Indoor air quality is not just a matter of comfort, it’s about protecting your health and preserving your home. Regardless of the weather or time of year, keeping on top of your IAQ is an excellent investment for your home.

At Foulks Southern Air, we want you to feel confident and safe with the air in your household, which is why we’ve provided air quality services for the people of Hammond and surrounding areas for over 25 years. Whether it be bringing a new installation into your home, solving an IAQ problem or simply having your air quality tested, Foulks Southern Air is here to help. Reach out to us today to schedule your next stellar service!