6 Most Common Types Of Indoor Air Pollutants

Protect Your Louisiana Indoor Air Quality

We’re no strangers to the humidity here in Louisiana. Keeping your indoor air quality (IAQ) healthy and comfortable at home is important for your well-being. If neglected, not only will your home become unpleasant, but your health will suffer too.

Trahan’s Heating & Cooling has provided Houma with reliable, high-quality HVAC services for over 28 years. We believe it’s essential to understand the importance of clean air and how you can maintain it — especially in our Louisiana homes.

Read on to learn about IAQ, air pollutants and how you can better protect yourself against them.

The Importance Of Indoor Air Quality

The air we breathe indoors can contain a variety of pollutants. When these contaminants go unaddressed, they may lead to health problems and affect the longevity of your HVAC system.

Maintaining good IAQ is not only about comfort but also about safeguarding your health and your investment in your AC and heater.

Here are some of the reasons why your Louisiana indoor air quality matters!

Healthier Air Leads To Better Health

They say there’s nothing quite like fresh air, and that’s for good reason. Clean air promotes better respiratory health. This means a reduced risk of allergies, asthma and other breathing issues. It also supports overall well-being, providing you and your family with a healthier life.

Better Comfort Comes With High IAQ

Breathing in fresh, clean air makes your home a more comfortable and enjoyable space to live in. Maintaining a healthy indoor air quality eliminates unwanted odors and reduces indoor humidity levels. You’ll be able to enjoy a much more pleasant environment at home when your IAQ is in good shape.

Indoor Air Health Helps The Well-Being Of Your HVAC System

It’s recommended to change your air filter every one to three months. Regular maintenance of this device and other IAQ systems helps your HVAC system do its job efficiently. This process extends its lifespan and saves you money on repairs and replacements.

Maintaining Your IAQ Can Improve Energy Efficiency

When air filters aren’t changed regularly, it can cause your unit to work harder to cool your home. A well-maintained HVAC system consumes less energy, leading to lower utility bills and a reduced carbon footprint.

The Most Common Indoor Air Pollutants

To maintain good IAQ, it’s crucial to identify and address common indoor air pollutants. These impurities can vary from household to household, but some are more prevalent than others.

We’re here to share the most common types of air pollutants you may encounter if you neglect your home’s IAQ.

1. Dust And Dust Mites

Dust particles can accumulate in your home, harboring microscopic pests known as dust mites. These pollutants can trigger allergies and asthma to those within your home. Our team can provide reliable IAQ solutions to reduce this particulate in your home.

2. Mold And Mildew

High humidity levels or water leaks can lead to mold and mildew growth. This bacteria can cause respiratory issues and damage your home’s structure if not corrected. Our team can perform reliable indoor air quality testing in Houma to determine what pollutants are inside your home.

3. Dander From Pets

If you have pets, their dander can become airborne and worsen asthma and allergies. Homeowners with pets may need to change their air filters more frequently than usual to maintain the device’s efficiency.

4. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are emitted by certain household products like paint, cleaning agents and air fresheners. These compounds are known for causing headaches, nausea and respiratory discomfort.

5. Pollen

Pollen from outdoor plants can enter your home and exacerbate allergies. When you trust our team with your IAQ issues, you can expect solutions that minimize the effect of allergens in your home.

6. Tobacco Smoke

Smoking indoors releases harmful chemicals into the air. This comes with severe health risks to smokers and non-smokers. To avoid the negative impact tobacco smoke can have on the body, it’s crucial to not smoke indoors.

The Benefits Of AC Filters

One of the most effective ways to combat indoor air pollutants is by using air filters. Filters are designed to trap particles and contaminants, preventing them from circulating in your home. To maximize the benefits of clean oxygen, it’s essential to maintain these HVAC components regularly.

Here are some ways to better maintain clean air with AC filters:

• Adhere to HVAC manufacturer’s recommendations for replacing air filters.
• Select air filters with the appropriate MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating for your needs. Higher MERV ratings trap smaller particles but may require more frequent replacements.
• Ensure your home is well-sealed to prevent outdoor pollutants from entering.
• Maintain proper ventilation to circulate fresh air and reduce indoor pollutants.

Contact Your HVAC Experts Here In Louisiana

Indoor air quality isn’t just a matter of comfort — it’s about protecting your health and preserving your home! Regardless of the weather or time of year, keeping on top of your IAQ is an excellent investment for your home.

At Trahan’s Heating & Cooling, we want you to feel confident and safe with the air in your household. Whether it be bringing a new installation into your home, solving an IAQ problem or simply having your air quality tested, Trahan’s is here to help. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment!