Indoor air quality plays a vital role in our overall health and well-being. Particles such as dust, dander, pet hair, pollen, and other allergens can end up in our indoor air and negatively affect our health. Especially in Calgary, with our dry, cold winters, and hot, sunny summers, we spend a large portion of our lives indoors.
Many homeowners don’t realize that their HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system plays a significant role in indoor air quality. They are responsible for circulating fresh air, filtering contaminants, and maintaining a comfortable temperature and humidity level within your home.
Let’s discuss the ways your HVAC system contributes to indoor air quality in a little more detail:
- Air Filtration – HVAC systems use air filters which are designed to capture dust, pet dander, and other airborne debris.
- Circulation – HVAC systems circulate indoor air through a system of supply and return ducts.
- Ventilation – An effective ventilation system ensures that stale air, pollutants, allergens, and moisture are removed from your home and replaced with fresh outdoor air.
- Humidity Control – High humidity levels within the home can lead to the growth of mold or mildew, which can have long-term negative health effects including respiratory issues. Low humidity can cause dryness, irritated skin, or nosebleeds. HVAC systems help to regulate humidity so your home’s air is healthy and comfortable.
How can I improve my indoor air quality in Calgary?
Now that we’ve taken a look at the connection between your HVAC system and indoor air quality, let’s take a look at some steps to ensure your family is both safe and comfortable:
- Clean Your Filters – Over time, air filters and furnace filters get dirty and clogged. Not only will this cause your HVAC system to work harder to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, but your system will no longer efficiently trap airborne particles such as dust and pollen. Regularly cleaning your filters is essential to maintaining indoor air quality and preventing the buildup of contaminants within the system. You should aim to clean your filters every one to three months.
- Install a Dehumidifier (Summer) – During the summer, your air conditioner helps to control the humidity in your home as it cools the air. However, it can’t always remove all moisture. Installing a whole-home dehumidifier removes any moisture that your AC misses, inhibiting the growth of mold and mildew.
- Install a Humidifier (Winter) – Dry air often occurs in the winter months when the furnace is on, especially during Calgary’s cold, dry winters. Adding moisture to the air with the help of a humidifier can relieve health issues including cold and allergy symptoms, nosebleeds, cracked lips, and dry skin.
- Install an Air Purifier – While your HVAC system does help to improve your indoor air quality, its primary function is to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, not filter the air. Installing a whole-home air purification system that connects to your HVAC unit removes a wide range of airborne allergens and pollutants, effectively cleaning the air in your home.
- Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance – The best way to maintain your HVAC system is through regular maintenance with a professional technician. Preventative maintenance includes a thorough inspection of your system, professional cleaning of components, and replacement of worn-out parts, ensuring your HVAC system is running as efficiently as possible. You should aim to schedule professional maintenance at the beginning of each season.
A well-maintained, properly functioning HVAC system plays an important role in indoor air quality, which is especially important in Calgary’s unique climate. To schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment, contact us today at Mr. Mike’s Plumbing.
