If you want to breathe easily at home while and conserving energy, need to monitor your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ). Low IAQ can lead to wheezing, sneezing, allergic reactions and respiratory ailments. It can also cause your energy bills to rise. For the sake of your budget as well as your health, you need to understand the impact of IAQ in your home.

Ventilation

If your home’s ventilation system or ductwork is outdated or has not been properly cleaned or maintained, it could cause you to breathe dust, debris and bacteria. A well-maintained ventilation system will let more fresh air into your home while reducing the presence of hazardous chemicals and pollutants.

Chemical Exposure

When a home’s IAQ is not monitored or cared for, the risk of exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) increases. This can occur even when you’re unaware of it. Using pesticides and chemical-based cleaners without proper ventilation can cause household members to have allergic or systemic reactions.

Humidity Levels

You also need to keep humidity in mind. Standard humidity levels will vary based on your home’s location and the time of year. However, it’s essential to maintain appropriate humidity levels year-round to prevent the accumulation of dust and the growth of mold. Proper humidity levels can also keep dust mites — which can trigger allergic reactions in people and pets — at bay.

Health Issues

One of the biggest reasons to maintain your home’s IAQ with routine inspections and maintenance is the health issues associated with poor air quality. Poor IAQ can contribute to respiratory infections, asthma, heart disease, and in some individuals, even lung cancer. People who have compromised or weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing these conditions.

Mental Health

Research during the past few years has suggested a link between poor indoor air quality and mental health issues. These ailments may include depression, anxiety and even complex neurological disorders. Long-term exposure to pollutants in the home may impair cognition as well. With a growing number of cases of mental health disorders and issues on the rise, it’s critical that homeowners take the IAQ of their homes more seriously than ever.

Maintaining your home’s IAQ is crucial as a homeowner. Good air quality can significantly improve your health while preventing allergies and other respiratory issues. If you’re interested in UV lights, dehumidifiers or an enhanced ventilation system, we’re here to help. To learn more about our IAQ services in Topeka, KS, contact Kaw Valley Heating and Cooling for your consultation today.