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Essential Indoor Air Quality Tips for Healthy Homes Year-Round

  • Writer: David Hrdlicka
    David Hrdlicka
  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read

Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a crucial role in the health and comfort of your home. In regions like New England, where winters are cold and homes are tightly sealed, and summers bring humidity and allergens, maintaining good IAQ can be challenging. Poor air quality can affect your family’s well-being, increase energy costs, and even damage your home’s structure. This post offers practical HVAC and plumbing tips to help you keep your indoor air fresh and healthy throughout the year.


Eye-level view of a modern HVAC system vent in a living room

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters


Indoor air often contains pollutants like dust, pollen, mold spores, and chemicals from household products. When these build up, they can cause allergies, respiratory problems, headaches, and fatigue. Good IAQ improves comfort by reducing odors and controlling humidity, which also protects your home from mold and structural damage. Efficient HVAC and plumbing systems help maintain IAQ while lowering energy bills by running smoothly and avoiding unnecessary strain.


Seasonal Indoor Air Quality Challenges in New England


Each season brings unique IAQ challenges in Connecticut and the surrounding areas:


  • Winter: Homes are sealed tightly to keep heat in, reducing fresh air circulation. This can trap indoor pollutants and increase moisture from cooking and showers, leading to mold growth.

  • Spring: Pollen levels rise, entering homes through open windows or on clothing, triggering allergies.

  • Summer: High humidity encourages mold and dust mites. Air conditioning systems must work harder to control moisture.

  • Fall: Dust and debris accumulate as leaves fall and heating systems start up again, stirring up allergens.


Understanding these challenges helps you prepare and respond effectively.


Practical Tips for Maintaining Indoor Air Quality


Regular HVAC Filter and Duct Maintenance


  • Change HVAC filters every 1 to 3 months depending on usage and filter type. High-efficiency filters capture smaller particles but may need more frequent replacement.

  • Schedule professional duct cleaning every 3 to 5 years or sooner if you notice dust buildup or mold.

  • Keep vents and registers clean and unobstructed to ensure proper airflow.


Proper Ventilation and Humidity Control


  • Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture and odors.

  • Balance humidity levels between 30% and 50%. Use a humidifier in dry winter months and a dehumidifier during humid summers.

  • Consider installing energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) or heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) to bring in fresh air without losing heat.


humidifier being refilled

Plumbing and Water Quality Maintenance


  • Regularly inspect water heaters and plumbing for leaks or corrosion that can cause mold or bacteria growth.

  • Flush water heaters annually to remove sediment buildup that affects water quality.

  • Install water filtration systems if your water supply has high mineral content or contaminants.


Mold Prevention and Leak Checks


  • Check for condensation on pipes, windows, and walls, especially in basements and crawl spaces.

  • Repair leaks promptly to prevent mold growth.

  • Use mold-resistant paint and materials in areas prone to moisture.


When to Call a Professional


  • If you notice persistent musty odors, visible mold, or unexplained allergy symptoms.

  • For duct cleaning, air purifier installation, or HVAC system upgrades.

  • To inspect plumbing systems for hidden leaks or water quality issues.


Upgrading Systems to Improve Air Quality and Save Energy


Investing in modern HVAC and plumbing systems can enhance IAQ and reduce energy costs:


  • High-efficiency HVAC units use less energy and provide better filtration.

  • Smart thermostats help maintain consistent temperatures and humidity levels.

  • Properly designed ventilation systems improve air exchange without wasting heat.

  • Tankless water heaters reduce sediment buildup and improve water quality.


These upgrades pay off over time with healthier air and lower utility bills.


Seasonal Indoor Air Quality Checklist


Fall/Winter

  • Replace HVAC filters before heating season.

  • Use humidifiers to prevent dry air.

  • Ventilate briefly by opening windows on mild days.


Spring

  • Clean or replace filters to capture pollen.

  • Wash bedding and curtains regularly.

  • Use doormats to reduce pollen tracked inside.


Summer

  • Run dehumidifiers to keep humidity below 50%.

  • Service air conditioners to ensure efficient moisture removal.

  • Keep vents clear and clean.


 
 
 
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