Changes in the Seasons Can Lead to Changes in Your IAQ
The quality of the air inside your home can fluctuate throughout the year as the seasons change. Understanding how these seasonal shifts can affect indoor air quality (IAQ) is important for maintaining a healthy living environment.
The transition between seasons brings changes in outdoor air quality, temperature, and humidity levels, all of which can impact the air quality inside your home. In the spring, rising pollen counts from blooming plants can increase airborne allergens indoors. As windows are opened to let in fresh air, pollen, dust, and other outdoor pollutants can make their way inside.
During the hot, humid summer months, mold growth can become a problem, especially in damp areas of the home. Additionally, the increased use of air conditioning units, which can collect dust and mold, can circulate these pollutants through the home.
As fall arrives, decaying leaves and other organic matter can contribute to IAQ issues. Closing windows and turning on heaters in the winter trap indoor pollutants and reduce air circulation.
Do Indoor Plants Improve Indoor Air Quality?
There is some debate around how effective houseplants are at improving overall IAQ. While plants can absorb certain airborne contaminants and release oxygen, their impact is generally limited to the immediate area around them. Large-scale studies have shown that plants alone are not enough to significantly improve IAQ in most homes.
However, certain plant varieties are better at removing specific pollutants. For example, English ivy and peace lilies are known to filter formaldehyde, while snake plants and Chinese evergreens can reduce benzene and trichloroethylene levels. Incorporating a variety of these air-purifying plants throughout your home may provide a modest boost to IAQ.
Other Ways to Improve IAQ Every Season
Below, we offer seasonal tips for improving your IAQ.
During the spring:
- Change HVAC air filters regularly. Replacing the air filters in your heating and cooling system will help remove pollen, dust, and other airborne particles from circulating through your home.
- Use a dehumidifier to control moisture and prevent mold. Keeping indoor humidity levels between 30-50% can discourage mold growth.
- Keep windows closed when pollen counts are high. Monitoring local pollen reports and closing windows when counts are elevated will limit the amount of allergens that can enter your home.
During the summer:
- Use exhaust fans when cooking or bathing to remove humidity. Proper ventilation will help prevent the buildup of moisture that can lead to mold and mildew.
- Vacuum frequently. Regular vacuuming, especially in high-traffic areas, will help reduce the presence of indoor pollutants.
- Consider a portable air purifier for high-traffic areas. Air purifiers can help filter out additional airborne contaminants that regular cleaning may miss.
During the fall:
- Seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors. Preventing outdoor air and pollutants from seeping in through cracks and gaps will improve IAQ.
- Clean gutters to prevent organic debris buildup. Clearing leaves and other decaying matter from gutters will stop them from being drawn into the home.
- Schedule HVAC maintenance before heavy use in winter. Servicing your heating system ensures it is operating efficiently and not circulating pollutants.
During the winter:
- Use a humidifier to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels. Dry indoor air can irritate respiratory systems, so keeping humidity between 30-50% is ideal.
- Check for and fix any ventilation issues or air leaks. Making sure your home is properly sealed and ventilated will prevent the buildup of indoor pollutants.
- Avoid burning wood or candles, which can release particulates. Combustion byproducts can negatively impact IAQ, so it's best to limit their use indoors.
Discuss IAQ solutions with Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. We offer humidifier system and ai purifier installations. Request a quote by calling our offices at (703) 457-8676.