3 Tips for Improving Your Indoor Air Quality This Fall

Fall is a great season, and when the weather is nice, it means your heating and air conditioning system doesn't have to run. But without the running HVAC unit, your indoor air quality could suffer. Here are three tips to make sure this doesn't happen:

#1 Use Indoor Plants

There are a variety of plants that grow well indoors and naturally remove toxins and chemicals from the air. Examples include the spider plant, bamboo palm and peace lily. These plants will also introduce oxygen into the home which is always helpful, especially if the windows and doors stay closed up all the time.

#2 Replace Your Indoor Air Filter

Before the winter season arrives, and while your HVAC system is off for a few days at a time, go ahead and replace your HVAC's air filter. Your filter needs changing every few months, so now's a good time to do it if you haven't already.

#3 Remove Chemical-Producing Items from Your Home

The worst indoor air pollution culprits are things that produce VOCs or volatile organic compounds. These are bad for your respiratory system and can potentially cause cancer. Although indoor houseplants can help remove these VOCs, the best way to avoid VOCs is to avoid having them in your home from the start.
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For example, don't store paints inside your home. Instead, put them in an outdoor building where the chemicals can go outside instead of in your enclosed and well-sealed house. And when using glues or adhesives containing VOCs, try to use them outdoors. If you can't, make sure you have adequate ventilation.
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To fully enjoy your heating and air conditioning system this fall, make sure you maintain good indoor air quality. If you're not sure exactly what to do, you can contact our team at Smoak's Comfort Control today for some additional ideas.