If you’re uncertain whether your Cape Coral home has bad indoor air quality (IAQ), it probably does.

We are indoors a lot. In fact, we’re inside up to 90% of the time, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. And the air inside residences could be 2–5 times more contaminated than outdoors, which might create long-term health issues.

Most Common Causes of Bad IAQ

We’ve made a list of the most common origins of inferior IAQ, the troubles they make and how you can take care of these indoor air pollutants. If you’re concerned about the air inside your house, we advise consulting with a pro like Comfort Zone, LLC about which products are a good fit for your home.

Volatile Organic Compounds

Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are chemicals leaked by common household items.

They’re found in paint and stains as well as:

  • Furniture
  • Carpet
  • Building materials
  • Cleaning products
  • Cosmetics
  • Air fresheners
  • Candles

When these chemicals accumulate inside, they can irritate your eyes, nose and throat. They can also cause headaches and nausea. Regardless of whether your house is in a rural or industrial space, an EPA study found indoor levels of these fumes can be 2–5 times greater than the air outdoors.

Always adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions when using paint or cleaning supplies. Cracking a window can help chemicals disperse faster.

Air purification systems can also better your air. This system partners with your heating and cooling system to enhance indoor air. When looking for a model, ensure it’s specifically made to eliminate VOCs.

Dust and Pet Dander

Dust and pet dander can irritate health problems like asthma and allergies, especially when it constantly gets moved by your residence’s comfort unit. While you can vacuum more routinely and install an improved air filter, an air filtration system might be a better match.

This unit hooks to your heating and cooling equipment to deliver powerful filtration. Some models provide hospital-level filtration for getting rid of particles and bioaerosols.

Lasting Odors

Modern homes are closely sealed to increase energy efficiency. While this is great for your energy bill, it’s not so good for your IAQ.

Stale odors can hang around for a greater amount of time as your residence is pulling in reduced fresh air. Since keeping your windows open all year-round isn’t a possibility, here are two methods you can make your indoor air smell better.

An air purification system is installed in your HVAC system to eliminate odors before they get released again. Search for one with a carbon filter and the capability to break down dangerous VOCs. These units can also help keep your loved ones healthy by getting rid of most bacteria and ordinary allergy triggers like pollen and mold spores.

A ventilation system pulls out stuffy indoor air and exchanges it with clean outdoor air. There are two kinds of systems (heat recovery and energy recovery), so ask our professionals for more info on which kind is best for your home.

Unsteady Humidity

It’s essential your home’s humidity remains even. Air that has too much moisture can lead to mold, while dry air can create respiratory symptoms.

Our pros suggest 40–50% for the best comfort. To keep yours even, think over getting a whole-home humidifier or whole-home dehumidifier with your comfort system.

Instead of having to drag a humidifier from room to room, this solution delivers even humidity throughout your house.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is colorless gas you can’t smell. It’s a byproduct of insufficient combustion in fuel-burning appliances, like gas heating systems, water heaters or fireplaces.

It causes a severe health risk. In low levels, it can cause flu-like sickness like headaches and nausea. It could be fatal in big levels.

We suggest annual furnace maintenance to double-check your system is running smoothly. This service allows our technicians to discover troubles before they begin, including malfunctions that can create carbon monoxide leaks.

The best approach to keep your residence free of carbon monoxide is to get detectors. These alarms must be on every floor close to bedrooms and living spaces.

Improve Your Home’s Air Quality with the Comfort Zone, LLC Professionals

Aware that your home has bad air quality but not sure how to improve it? Or unsure which option is best for you? Give our friendly HVAC professionals a call at 239-214-0411 or contact us online today. With free estimates and professional support, we’ll help you find the ideal option for your family and budget.