Tips to Protect Your Indoor Air Quality
Air pollution is caused by particles and gases that are suspended in the air. These particles and gases can results from car and truck exhaust, emissions from factories, dust, pollen, mold spores and natural disasters. Both short-term and long-term exposure to air pollutants can cause a variety of health problems including difficulty breathing, headaches, coughing, sore throat and fatigue.
Natural disasters like wildfires often cause short-term spikes in poor air quality as the smoke, which contains carbon monoxide and other dangerous chemicals, enters the atmosphere. You can help protect the quality of your indoor air with the following tips.
Keep Your Air Filters Clean
The filter within your HVAC unit removes harmful contaminants from the air and protects the system from dust and debris that can hinder operation. Routinely replacing your HVAC filter improves your air quality and extends the lifespan of your system.
Install HEPA Filters
HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters are a type of mechanical air filter that trap harmful pollutants like dust, pollen, mold, bacteria and other airborne particles. HEPA filters provide more effective filtration than other styles of air filters and can help to maximize indoor air quality.
Recirculate the Air
Most rooftop units and larger HVAC systems are equipped with an outdoor air economizer. The economizer allows the unit to use outdoor air to assist with cooling. In instances where the outdoor air quality is unsafe, you can temporarily disable the economizer to minimize the outdoor air intake and turn the system to recirculate mode.
Invest in an Air Purification System
Commercial air purification systems are designed for use in commercial HVAC systems and reduce odors, smoke, mold, bacteria, viruses and other pollutants from indoor air. Air purification systems are a great way to ensure you provide your facility with healthy, clean air.
Need help addressing your HVAC and indoor air quality concerns? Find a Smart Care company near you.