Indoor Air Quality Is About More Than Humidity and Allergens
Modern heating and air conditioning systems are very good at maintaining comfortable temperature and humidity levels in your home. You can control many of the allergens in your home by choosing an efficient air filter and changing or cleaning it frequently.
There are three potentially deadly pollutants that seriously effect indoor air quality, and that your HVAC system won’t be able to eliminate.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning kills or sickens thousands of people across the United States every year. It is a colorless, odorless gas that is a by-product of incomplete fuel combustion. Leaks from your furnace, stove, and generator can allow this dangerous gas to enter your home. The following steps can protect your family from carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Have your furnace and other fuel-burning appliances inspected thoroughly, and ensure that gases are vented safely to the outside of your house. Signing up for regular maintenance with a licensed HVAC company, such as Bunn’s and Bennett Heating and Air Conditioning, is one way to ensure that your equipment remains in good working condition throughout the year.
- Never leave your car running inside your garage, even with the garage door open.
- Install CO detectors on every floor of your home.
Secondhand Smoke
Children and people with asthma or other respiratory problems shouldn’t be exposed to tobacco smoke. You should not allow smoking inside your home, especially if there is someone with respiratory illnesses. Other sources of smoke inside your home are also harmful, so be sure your fireplace or wood stove is kept clean and that smoke is effectively pulled through the chimney.
Radon Gas
Radon gas occurs naturally and seeps into homes from soil and rocks beneath the foundation. Have your home tested for radon. Lower rooms such as basements are particularly vulnerable. Ensure such rooms are well-sealed.
Be aware of other possible air quality problems. Older homes may have problems with asbestos and lead paint. Be aware of hazardous chemicals from new construction materials, paint, furniture and carpeting.
If you believe your home might be encountering any of the air quality issues mentioned above, contact the indoor air quality experts at Bunn’s and Bennett Heating and Air Conditioning.
Bunn’s and Bennett Heating and Air Conditioning’s goal is for our customers to have total comfort. We’ve been a licensed and insured HVAC dealer serving Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley area for more than 30 years. If you have questions, we have answers. Email us at [email protected] or call us at 256-536-0967.
