Why You Should Consider Getting an Air Quality Test
Day-to-day, you probably never think about the air you're breathing in until you catch a hint of a smell that is not pleasing. In some cases, you may not have spent much time thinking about it, but it may be worth exploring because it could be the indoor air quality of your home.
Once you have experienced the different air qualities, you may start being more concerned about making sure that yours is the best you can get. Here are just a few reasons why you need to schedule an air quality test!
Lower Monthly Bills
One of the first reasons is that an air quality test can bring any issues with your HVAC system to light. You may have blocked air vents, which can lower the energy efficiency and increase your monthly bills. Improving your quality of air and saving you money? Now that's a win-win!
Radon Gas
Another concern an air quality test can help you detect is a radioactive gas called radon. The gas is produced when the uranium in nearby soils begins to decay. It can move up through the ground and into your home through holes or cracks in the foundation, and once it's inside, it can begin to build up in your home.
Side effects from exposure to this could be hoarseness, wheezing, or shortness of breath, so this is just another reason to have your air quality checked.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is another concern, and this can come from various sources:
Carbon monoxide is dangerous because it can cause your organs to be starved of oxygen, and you may experience dizziness, headaches, or nausea as the body begins to shut down.
Mold and Mildew
Having an A/C installation doesn't mean your air quality is well maintained. Debris and dirt can create issues like spores and mold that can negatively affect your health. Performing an air quality test every so often can give you a headstart on detecting any signs of mold or mildew instead of dealing with it later on down the road.
Allergies
The last thing an air quality test will help determine is if there are large amounts of dander or dust in the air alongside the mold or mildew. Allergies or asthma symptoms can be evidence of underlying issues in your home that need to be addressed around the air quality.
VOCs
VOCs are also known as volatile organic compounds, and they can come from a large variety of products in the home, including:
These products will evaporate into the air and may still emit particulates even when stored. The chemicals can irritate the nose, throat, and eyes and contribute to other health issues.
What Happens During an Indoor Air Quality Test?
The professional will visually assess humidity readings while gathering surface and air samples around the home. The standard process takes one to two hours; the results are analyzed, and you will receive a detailed report once the findings are completed.
While DIY options are available for air testing, a professional uses a comprehensive system that also considers other factors like ventilation, temperature, and humidity, which all directly affect the air quality. This means you're getting a more thorough and accurate reading, so you can choose a product that offers you the highest level of benefits.
There are several ways to help with air purification in your home, and one of the first recommendations is to consider getting an air quality test to see what particulates are an issue.
Air Purification Technologies: How to Enhance Indoor Air Quality
Beyond that, we have several recommendations that are easy to incorporate for cleaner indoor air.
Invest in a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier lowers the moisture in your home, which decreases the chances of mold and mildew building up. This is especially important for those with allergies and asthma because the excess moisture and musty smell can induce symptoms.
Increase Your Ventilation
Toxins and particulates like radon, combustion pollutants, and VOCs can build up inside your indoor air space without regular ventilation. Opening windows, investing in an air exchanger, or using fans circulates the air and helps control the pollution level your household is exposed to.
Regular Cleanings
It's no secret that indoor air can become stale without proper cleaning, and when you're using heating and AC systems, mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander can get forced into your home via the HVAC system.
Per the Harvard Medical School, keeping your home clean cuts back on the buildup of particulates, scheduling regular vacuuming, washing drapes and bedding, and wiping down surfaces with a damp cloth can significantly reduce contaminants.
Investing in an Air Purification System
From improving asthma symptoms to removing bones in your home, air purifiers come with multiple benefits, With some removing up to 99.97% of pollutants. They filter out harmful chemicals and can help reduce dust, pet dander, and mold spores to help improve overall air quality.
If you are considering investing in an air filtration system, Smart A/C Services offers three effective and economical options that will remove contaminants from bacteria to pet dander. The designs range from whole-house filtration to compact size, and our professionals will work with you to determine the best method for your needs.
Choose Smart A/C Services for Exceptional HVAC Care
Ensuring you have the highest quality air in your home is essential, and you want to work with a locally trusted company to know the job is done right. Smart A/C Services has been in business since 2007, specializing in commercial HVAC and heating services in the Texas area.
Your air quality and home comfort are our top priority, so contact us or give us a call at 832-439-0758 today.