Despite the season’s beauty, spring is notorious for the prevalence of allergens and other factors that can compromise indoor air quality (IAQ). From pollen and spores to higher humidity levels, it can create major challenges for keeping your home’s air healthy. Exploring these top nine tips for improving indoor air quality can help you make informed choices that enhance the comfort and health of your home.
How Does Springtime Impact Indoor Air Quality?
Spring brings a major shift from winter’s colder temperatures to summer’s hotter conditions. This results in a host of seasonal factors that can alter air quality. For instance, since most plants begin to bloom in the spring, the airborne pollen concentration is at an all-time high. Pollen can stick to your clothes, shoes, or pets and be tracked inside your house. It can even blow into your home when you open the doors or windows for fresh air. Once inside your home, it can irritate your respiratory system and cause hay fever. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 60 million people experience pollen-related allergies yearly.
In addition to pollen, other springtime conditions can affect air quality. Springtime is the season when pets shed their winter coats. This excess pet fur and dander can float around your home and decrease IAQ.
Spring is also notable for its heavy rains, which increase indoor humidity levels. High humidity can contribute to respiratory issues like allergies. A high concentration of air moisture can also create a breeding ground for mold or mildew.
9 Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality in the Spring
There are several strategies for boosting your indoor air quality in the spring.
1. Replace Your Air Filter
Your HVAC air filter traps dust and other airborne contaminants before they recirculate through your living spaces. However, when an air filter becomes clogged with dirt and debris, it can no longer do its job. Restricted airflow can also cause your HVAC unit to work harder, straining the equipment and potentially raising your energy bills. A filter that is dirty enough can even harbor mold or other pollutants.
Experts recommend changing filters at least once every three months. However, you may need to change yours out more often in the spring. Factors like increased pollen and pet hair will clog them faster. Many homeowners inspect their filters once a month to ensure they know when it is time for a fresh one.
2. Keep Windows and Doors Closed
It is tempting to leave your doors and windows open to let in fresh spring air. However, it is important to stay ahead of pollen to ensure it does not accumulate in your home. Keep informed about pollen levels by checking local weather reports. You can also use smartphone apps or allergy trackers to monitor pollen counts. On high-pollen days, keep doors and windows closed. Pollen levels tend to be highest in the early morning and late afternoon.
3. Install a Whole-Home Air Purifier
An air purifier is a great way to help remove springtime allergens that enter your home. These purifiers improve indoor air quality by eliminating particles, dust mites, mold spores, pollen, and other airborne pollutants. A professional can integrate a whole-home model into your current HVAC setup.
They work by drawing air through filters that trap and neutralize harmful particles. Two of the most effective filter types are activated carbon filters and HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters.
Activated carbon filters target odors, chemical vapors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by absorbing them into a porous material. On the other hand, HEPA filters capture airborne particles down to 0.3 microns in size. This includes allergens like pollen, pet dander, and mold spores that commonly trigger springtime allergies. Together, these filters ensure cleaner, healthier air throughout your home.
4. Upgrade Your Cleaning Routine
Upgrading your cleaning routine can make a noticeable difference in your indoor air quality, especially during allergy season. Rugs and carpets act like sponges for airborne contaminants, trapping dust, pollen, pet dander, and even mold spores deep within their fibers. Without consistent cleaning, these particles can be re-released into the air every time you walk across the floor.
Vacuum at least once or twice a week using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter. These filters are designed to capture 99.97% of particles, keeping allergens and irritants from circulating through your home. You should also take the time to vacuum upholstery and curtains as part of your spring cleaning routine.
5. Minimize Indoor Air Pollutants
It is also important to be mindful of the types of products you use when cleaning your home. Cleaning products with harsh chemicals are a common source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals evaporate easily at room temperature and negatively affect indoor air quality, exacerbating many health problems like headaches or nasal irritation. Synthetic air fresheners and scented candles can also contain VOCs. Try switching to all-natural cleaning products. You can also use alternative cleaning methods, such as dusting your home with electrostatic cleaning cloths instead of dusting spray.
6. Consider Duct Cleaning
Air ducts are the conduits that deliver air to your home’s rooms. However, particles and contaminants can accumulate and settle within them over time. Running your HVAC system during the spring can push these particles out of your ducts to circulate in your house. If it has been a few years since your last duct inspection, talk to an HVAC technician about scheduling a professional cleaning. Most homes can benefit from duct cleaning services every three to five years.
7. Make the Most of Houseplants
According to the EPA, Americans can spend up to 90% of their time indoors. Try freshening the air and creating a pleasant seasonal ambiance with houseplants. Air-purifying plants that are also low maintenance include aloe vera, spider plants, and peace lilies.
8. Groom Pets Regularly
Pets shed fur and dander that can worsen allergies in the spring. Schedule regular grooming to minimize the accumulation of pet hair. If you take care of this task at home, always wash and brush your pets outdoors to avoid impacting your indoor air quality.
9. Monitor Indoor Humidity Levels
Seasonal rainfall increases water vapor in your home’s air, which impacts indoor humidity levels. According to the EPA, ideal indoor humidity is 30-50%, and it should never exceed 60%. Measuring humidity with a hygrometer is simple, and some smart thermostats come with them built in. If you notice moisture levels are constantly too high, consider installing a whole-home dehumidifier. Like an air purifier, whole-home models integrate with your HVAC system and run when your system does.
Contact Your Local Professionals
At IBBOTSON Heating & Air Conditioning Co., we have been serving the residents of Arlington Heights and the surrounding areas since 1946. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. We also specialize in indoor air quality solutions, such as installing whole-home air purifiers and humidity control systems. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced technicians.
