How to Detect Poor Indoor Air Quality

When it comes to indoor air quality, the most glaring indicator that something has gone awry is a deterioration in your health. Whether that means constant sneezing and runny noses, or something more serious, like asthma attacks or chronic health conditions, the air quality in your home or work environment could be to blame. If you suspect your indoor air quality is poor, here are a few items to check on before you call in the pros.

• Smoking – Is it allowed indoors? Many people don’t realize that even though no one is smoking in the immediate vicinity, that doesn’t mean that someone smoking a few rooms or apartments over won’t negatively affect your indoor air quality.
• Mold and Mildew – Ahh, that familiar, musty stench, most closely associated with old books and basements. If you see or smell mold and mildew, you should have it inspected right away. Mold spores can enter the air, causing illness and allergies.
• Humidity – The ideal relative humidity for health and comfort is between 40-50%. If you find that your home’s humidity regularly rises above 50%, you may have a problem. Not only will this make the air heavy and uncomfortable, but it can encourage mold growth and lead to structural damage to your home.
• Ventilation – Are your fuel-burning appliances all properly vented outdoors? Gas stoves, heaters and fireplaces are all prime suspects of many gas-related indoor air problems. You should also make sure that your bathrooms are properly ventilated, which will help keep humidity in check.
• Filters & Air Ducts – When was the last time you changed the filters on your HVAC system or had your ducts cleaned by a professional? Over time, dirt and debris can build up in your heating and air conditioning units, contaminating the air with dust, pollen and pet dander – yuck!

These are just some of the most immediate things to think about when considering your home or office air quality. It’s also important to think about cleaning products and pesticides that may have been used, as well as paints or solvents and where they’re stored. However, the best way to know where your indoor air quality is lacking, is by contacting a professional to perform an assessment. Fortunately for folks in the New Haven County and Fairfield County areas, Tyler Heating & Air Conditioning has got you covered!

To book your consultation with one of our indoor air quality experts today, dial 203-378-4700.