The public health emergency caused by the spread of COVID-19 has made many of us think more about the safety of the air that we breathe. Your HVAC system is the primary method of air filtration for most homeowners, but it won’t do this job efficiently if it isn’t properly maintained. There are also additional steps you can take to invest in an overall home air purification system that protects you and everyone else in your household from the worst effects of breathing in polluted air. If you want to keep the air in your home clean, read on to learn why it’s a such great idea to invest in a high-quality air purifying system.
Why should you invest in an air-purifying system?
Every homeowner should be aware of the importance of investing in a good air purifying system. Your HVAC system is often your most effective tool when it comes to air filtration, which is one of the reasons why keeping it in good working order is so essential. Air filtration and purification at home is your best way to protect against poor indoor air quality, which can have a serious impact on your health and safety at home.
Breathing in polluted air has been linked to serious heart and lung problems. Conditions connected to air pollution include coronary artery disease, emphysema, respiratory infections, stroke, and even cancer. It can also exacerbate the symptoms of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. The effects of breathing in polluted air can be especially tough to deal with for pregnant people, children, and the elderly.
Your HVAC system can only protect you if it’s operating efficiently, which requires a commitment to regular preventive maintenance. You should have a technician inspect your HVAC unit at least once a year, and the filter should be changed at least every 90 days. Warning signs that you need a filter change can include discoloration, low airflow, and a sudden and sharp increase in your energy bills.
What else can you do to improve air quality at home?
There are a number of ways you can improve the quality of your indoor air. One of the simplest is making sure you clean your home regularly. Proper home hygiene can significantly reduce the presence of many allergens and irritants like dust mites. Experts recommend vacuuming at least once or twice a week and laundering items like area rugs and bedding frequently.
You can also invest in smaller air purifiers as a complement to your HVAC system. These are best placed in high-traffic rooms like your kitchen or living room. While they won’t eliminate the presence of irritants, they can be particularly useful for allergy sufferers or those sensitive to unpleasant odors. You should look for an air purifier with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter and make sure your purifier is the right size for the room you intend to place it in.
Through COVID-19 has brought more attention to the conversation about the importance of clean air, it’s essential for you to prioritize indoor air quality all the time. Pollution can cause serious health problems all the time, regardless of whether or not there’s a pandemic going on. Make sure you schedule regular preventive maintenance to protect your HVAC system and consider investing in an air purifier for the rooms you use most often. Smaller changes like regular cleaning and laundering of certain items can also make a noticeable difference. It’s hard to think of a better investment than protecting the safety of the air you breathe in your home.
