Vacuum Regularly
As simple as it may seem, frequent vacuuming is essential to reducing the pollutants in your home. Carpet collects dust, pet dander, and whatever else you might track inside. Especially if you have pets, minimize the amount of carpeting in your home if possible.
Groom Pets
For those with pets, it’s important to schedule regular grooming to prevent excessive dander in your home. Even if your house appears hair-free after you clean, these allergens will still collect in your air ducts.
Open Windows
You should open your windows as much as possible to reduce pollutants. Especially if your HVAC system recirculates the air in your house, letting in some fresh air will mitigate indoor allergens.
Change Your Filter
A dirty filter will circulate pollutants throughout your house. Generally, it’s recommended that you change your filter every 1-3 months. Most filters will indicate their useful life on the packaging, but you may want to change it more often if you have pets or live near a construction site. In addition to improving air quality, replacing a dirty filter will also reduce your AC’s energy consumption by 5-10%. If it’s been a while since you’ve changed yours out, spring is a perfect time!
Clean Ducts
Air ducts can collect mildew, mold, bacteria, and many other pollutants. So, how often do you need to get your air ducts cleaned? The answer depends on whether you regularly change your filter, have pets, or are suspicious of mold or mildew growth. If you suspect mold, have vermin in your air ducts or see that the inside of your vent register is coated with black debris, it is definitely time to get your ducts cleaned. If none of these issues are present, it is generally recommended to get your ducts cleaned every 3-5 years.
If you would like to speak with a professional about improving your home’s air quality, give Bounds Heating and Air a call at 352-472-2761, or visit our website to learn more about our indoor home air quality solutions. Find out why we’re Gainesville’s choice for heating and air services!