How To Test Air Quality in Your Home

It's a fact of life that people spend a lot of time indoors. And unfortunately, that means that many people are breathing in air that's not very clean. Air quality inside and outside of your home can significantly impact your health. Healthy air can prevent you from developing respiratory illnesses, and it can also support your overall well-being by reducing the stress of everyday life.

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How can homeowners test for air quality around the house?

A recent study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has shown that air quality can be improved in your home by taking simple steps. The EPA recommends testing indoor air quality every six months and using an air purifier when necessary. By testing regularly, homeowners can identify any potential sources of pollution in their homes and take the appropriate steps to improve their air quality.

Here are some tips for testing your home's air quality: 

  1. Test your indoor environment with an indoor Air Quality Meter from companies such as Ecobee.
  2. Check for drafts and install storm windows or doors if necessary to reduce infiltration of outside pollutants.
  3. Clean your vents and filters on your heating and cooling units regularly to remove pollen, dust mites, pet dander and other allergens.

How would someone know if they are having air quality issues?

If you notice an increase in allergies, respiratory problems, or other air quality issues inside your home, it is important to take action. There are a few ways to determine if you have air quality issues inside your home: 

-Take a walk around the house and note any areas that smell bad or feel dry. 

-Monitor the indoor air quality sensor in your home. This sensor will tell you how clean the air is indoors and help identify potential pollution sources. 

-Check for mold or dust mites near windows and vents. These allergens can be released into the air when humidity levels rise and cause symptoms like asthma attacks. 

-Look for signs of fire damage outside your home--smoke, scorch marks on grass or trees, etc.

Are there any kits or smart devices you would recommend? 

In recent years, many people have become more aware of the importance of air quality. The topic is particularly relevant to those living in cities, as air pollution can cause many health problems, including asthma and heart disease. While there are various ways to measure and track air quality, there are some specific devices or kits that could be helpful for those seeking to improve their situation. For example, The Ecobee4 is a smart thermostat that monitors air quality and energy usage in your home. 

In addition, a smog monitor could help identify when environmental pollutants are reaching unhealthy levels. Also, smart meters can provide real-time data on energy usage and emissions levels. Finally, home ventilation systems can also play an important role in reducing pollutants inside homes. By understanding the different ways to assess and improve air quality, everyone can take steps toward improving their health and environment.

When is it best to call in a professional?

When it comes to air quality, every family is different. Some people may be more sensitive to the issue than others, and some may even have trouble distinguishing between environmental pollutants and everyday household dust. As a result, it can be hard to know when professional help is needed, that’s why we need to take care of it with the help of professionals like HVAC Express.

Here are a few guidelines to follow if you're trying to figure out when professional help is warranted:

  • If your home has a noticeable odor or you see signs of illness in your children or pets, it's time to call in a professional. Air quality can become dangerously impaired very quickly if left unchecked.
  • If you experience shortness of breath or coughing, particularly during warm weather months, it might be time for a visit from an expert.
  • A little bit of mold does t sound like much, but it can be dangerous. If you notice water damage on your ceilings or walls, or unpleasant odors coming from the basement, it's time to call in an expert.



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