As homeowners, we spend time, money and energy to create a comfortable living environment. Not all, however, take the importance of proper ventilation into account. Maintaining good ventilation is crucial to improving indoor air quality and minimizing harmful airborne contaminants, which are known to cause respiratory issues. Lack of ventilation, meanwhile, leads to uncomfortable living spaces and can put household members at risk of asthma and other allergy symptoms.
Today’s blog post from heating and air conditioning installation company Superior Air discusses the essential dos and don’ts of home ventilation that a homeowner should keep in mind.
Do: Turn Exhaust Fans On
Whenever you’re cooking food or taking a shower, make it a habit to turn on the exhaust fan. It helps draw moisture and odors away from these areas, thus preventing mold growth and improving air quality. Do so before doing kitchen or bathroom activities, and leave it running for up to about 30 minutes after you finish.
Do: Keep Air Filters Clean
Debris-free air filters in your HVAC system are key to keeping your home well-ventilated. They trap dust, dirt and other pollutants and prevent them from circulating in the air. Just make sure to check on them — they can get clogged after a while, impeding airflow and reducing your system’s efficiency. Cleaning or replacing them regularly, preferably at least once every three months, should be a part of your heating and air conditioning maintenance plan.
Don’t: Block Air Vents or Registers
Air vents or registers don’t necessarily detract from the aesthetics of living spaces, but some homeowners conceal them as a way to improve the appearance of their home’s interiors. This, however, obstructs airflow, impairing your HVAC system’s ability to keep your home ventilated. Make sure air vents and registers are unobstructed, and be sure to clean them regularly to remove dirt and dust buildup.
Don’t: Ignore Signs of Poor Ventilation
A poorly-ventilated home exposes you and your family to a wide range of symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, and respiratory issues. If you notice musty odors or excess humidity, it may be time to invest in a whole-home ventilation system. You can also turn to your local HVAC contractor for assistance to go over some of your home’s ventilation needs.
In addition to heating and air conditioning repair and maintenance, Superior Air also offers indoor air quality services for customers in residential and commercial settings. Our indoor air quality solutions include traditional and UV air purifiers, as well as energy recovery and heat recovery ventilators (ERV and HRV). Schedule an appointment today by calling (559) 734-2002 or filling out our contact form. We serve homeowners in and around Visalia, CA.
