How to Improve the Air Quality of Your Home

Maintaining good indoor air quality is essential for a healthy home environment. Poor air quality can lead to various health issues, including allergies, respiratory problems, and fatigue. Fortunately, there are several ways to address and improve indoor air quality. By following these steps, homeowners can create a healthier living space for their families. Below are essential tips on how to improve the air quality of your home effectively.

The air you breathe inside your home can be more polluted than outdoor air, especially if proper ventilation and air purification measures aren’t in place. Pollutants like dust, pet dander, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning products or building materials can accumulate over time. As homes become more energy-efficient and airtight, it's easier for these pollutants to remain trapped indoors. This means it’s more important than ever to take steps to actively improve indoor air quality. Knowing how to improve the air quality of your home is crucial for maintaining a healthy living space, particularly for those with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions.

Trust these maintenance companies with your HVAC or ventilation needs.

A1 Heating and Cooling is a highly reputable HVAC company serving the East Bay area. Known for their expertise in HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance, they specialize in regular system tune-ups, air filter replacements, and duct cleaning, helping homeowners maintain optimal indoor air quality. Their certified technicians focus on energy efficiency and air purity, making them a trusted choice for air quality improvement in East Bay homes.

Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning, and Plumbing is a top-rated HVAC company in Oakland, known for its commitment to improving indoor air quality through expert ventilation and HVAC services. They offer comprehensive maintenance plans, including seasonal inspections, duct cleaning, and filter replacements, ensuring systems run efficiently year-round. Jazz also provides customized ventilation systems to help improve airflow and reduce indoor pollutants.

Moore Mechanical is a family-owned HVAC service provider with over 30 years of experience in the East Bay. They offer a wide range of services, including HVAC system maintenance, indoor air quality assessments, and advanced ventilation system installations. Moore Mechanical is particularly known for its focus on eco-friendly systems, offering solutions like energy-efficient HVAC systems and whole-house air purifiers.

Exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms are essential for removing moisture, odors, and pollutants like cooking fumes and bathroom humidity. When used properly, these fans vent indoor air to the outside, rather than recirculating it within the home. Regularly using exhaust fans during cooking and after showers is one of the simplest solutions for maintaining good air quality in your home.

For homes in areas like Montclair, CA, where outdoor air quality may fluctuate, installing a whole-home ventilation system can ensure a consistent supply of fresh air while preserving energy. Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) are two effective options that allow for energy-efficient air exchange between indoor and outdoor air. These systems help reduce pollutants while also maintaining indoor temperature and humidity control.

Your HVAC system is responsible for circulating air throughout your home, making its maintenance crucial for preserving air quality. Schedule regular professional inspections and cleaning at least once a year to ensure your system is working efficiently. Additionally, clean your ductwork to prevent the buildup of dust, mold, or other contaminants that can affect indoor air quality. A well-maintained HVAC system not only improves air quality but also ensures energy efficiency in your home.

The filter in your HVAC system is also your first line of defense against airborne pollutants. Most HVAC systems come with basic filters, but upgrading to a filter with a higher Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating can improve its ability to trap smaller particles. A MERV rating between 8 and 13 is recommended for residential homes. Changing your filters every three months, or as recommended, will ensure they remain effective in capturing dust, pollen, and other pollutants.

High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are the gold standard for air purification. These filters can capture up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including allergens, bacteria, and viruses. Consider using air purifiers or vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA filters to remove airborne pollutants effectively. HEPA filters are especially beneficial for households with allergy sufferers or pets, as they help reduce allergens in the air.

Many conventional cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can off-gas into the air and trigger respiratory irritation. Opt for eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaners to reduce the number of harmful chemicals released into your home’s air. Natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils can be just as effective in cleaning without compromising air quality. Reducing your use of toxic cleaners is a simple way to improve air quality over time.

Humidity plays a key role in indoor air quality, particularly in preventing the growth of mold and mildew. Mold spores can worsen allergies and asthma, leading to poor health outcomes. To avoid these issues, keep your home’s humidity levels between 30% and 50%. Dehumidifiers are an excellent solution for controlling moisture in damp areas like basements or bathrooms. Additionally, make sure your home is well-ventilated, and use exhaust fans after cooking or showering to reduce excess humidity.

Air fresheners, scented candles, and other products with artificial fragrances can release harmful chemicals into the air, contributing to poor indoor air quality. Opt for natural alternatives, such as essential oils or unscented cleaning products, which are less likely to introduce VOCs into your living space. For a healthier environment, choose beeswax candles over paraffin ones, as beeswax candles burn cleaner and release fewer pollutants.

Houseplants are a natural and aesthetically pleasing way to improve air quality. Certain plants have been shown to filter harmful toxins from the air while also producing oxygen. For example, plants like the spider plant, snake plant, and peace lily are effective in removing pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide. However, while plants can contribute to better air quality, they shouldn’t replace other air filtration systems. For homes with allergy sufferers, it’s best to opt for hypoallergenic, low-pollen plants.

Dust, pet dander, and allergens can accumulate on surfaces, carpets, and furniture over time, making regular cleaning essential for maintaining good air quality. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove fine particles that might otherwise become airborne. Dusting surfaces with a microfiber cloth also helps trap particles rather than just moving them around. Pay extra attention to high-traffic areas and fabrics like curtains and upholstery, which tend to collect more dust.

Fabrics can trap allergens like dust mites, which thrive in warm, humid environments. Wash bedding, curtains, and throw rugs regularly in hot water to eliminate these allergens. If possible, use dust-proof covers for pillows and mattresses to further reduce exposure to dust mites. By keeping your fabrics clean, you reduce the number of allergens circulating in your home.

Air purifiers are one of the most effective tools for improving indoor air quality, especially in rooms with limited ventilation. For maximum effectiveness, choose an air purifier with a HEPA filter, which can remove airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and smoke. Portable air purifiers are ideal for bedrooms and living rooms, while whole-home air purifiers can be integrated into your HVAC system to clean the air throughout your entire home.

For more advice on how to improve the air quality of your home or for expert guidance in Montclair, CA real estate, Pamela Strike Fullerton is here to help. Whether you're looking to buy or sell, creating a healthy living environment is key to enjoying your home. Contact Pamela Strike Fullerton today for professional real estate support.