How to Control Indoor Air Quality in the Summer

With flowers and insects come pollen and other allergens in the summertime. While pollen is a pesky issue for most in Charlottesville, Virginia, it can present serious problems for others. If you have a child with asthma, it is important to control indoor air quality in the summer. Fortunately, maintaining indoor air quality can be as easy as keeping the windows closed, controlling moisture, and using a dehumidifier.

Keep the Windows Closed

It’s natural to want to open windows to let in fresh air. However, if anyone in your home has serious allergies or respiratory problems, it might be best to keep those windows closed. As flowers bloom and insects multiply, large amounts of pollen permeate the air. Summer winds spread these allergens far and wide. Even if you don’t have flowering plants in your yard, keep the windows closed to prevent pollen from getting into your home. Closing the windows will keep other allergens, such as dust and dirt, out of your home too.

Control Moisture

Moisture has a huge impact on indoor air quality. Keep all areas in your home clean and dry to prevent mold growth. The most common areas for mold growth are basements, crawl spaces, bathrooms/showers, and attics. It is essential to control moisture in your child’s bedroom. Mold and mildew are both allergens that can increase the likelihood of asthma attacks. Dust mites are another type of allergen that thrives in humid environments.

Use a Dehumidifier

Homeowners should use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity during the hot months. You can use either a portable model to dehumidify one room or small area or choose a whole-home model that connects to your HVAC system. A dehumidifier will control both moisture and allergens indoors. Indoor humidity should be kept in the 30 to 50 percent range. Make sure to keep your filters clean to improve indoor air quality.

There are many ways to control indoor air quality in the summertime. For more information about how to manage air quality in your home this summer, call 434-298-2151 to speak with one of our skilled HVAC technicians here at W.E. Brown.

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