Ah, summer—the season of sunshine, backyard barbecues, and… indoor air pollutants? That’s right, while you’re enjoying the warm weather in Central New Jersey, sneaky pollutants are lurking in your home that could affect your health and comfort.
Let’s uncover these hidden dangers and learn how to kick them to the curb with some help from C&C Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric.
The Culprits: What’s Polluting Your Indoor Air?
1. Pollen Invasion
As beautiful as summer blooms are, they can wreak havoc on indoor air quality. Pollen sneaks in through open windows and doors, hitching a ride on your clothes and pets. For allergy sufferers, this can mean sneezing fits and itchy eyes, even indoors.
2. Pesky Pet Dander
Fido and Fluffy might be your best pals, but their dander isn’t so friendly. Pet dander—tiny flecks of skin shed by pets—floats in the air and can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially when windows are shut tight when the AC is running.
3. Mold Mayhem
Humid summer days provide the perfect breeding ground for mold spores, lurking in damp basements, bathrooms, and even within heating and cooling systems. Mold can cause respiratory issues and worsen allergies, making it a formidable foe to tackle.
4. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Summer brings with it a flurry of activities like painting, DIY projects, and using household cleaners—all of which release VOCs into the air. These chemicals can cause short-term health effects like headaches and dizziness, and long-term exposure may lead to more serious health concerns. Yikes!
Combatting Indoor Air Pollutants: Tips and Tricks
1. Keep It Clean
Regular cleaning is your first line of defense. Dust and vacuum frequently to reduce pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. Don’t forget to clean or replace the filters in your heating & cooling system regularly! It may also be beneficial to upgrade to an air purifier, especially if anyone in your household suffers from allergies or is in any way health compromised.
2. Control Humidity
Mold loves moisture, so keep indoor humidity levels at a healthy level to stop its growth. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and bathrooms and ensure your system is properly maintained to prevent moisture buildup.
3. Ventilate Wisely
While it’s tempting to keep windows closed and crank up the AC on hot days, this can trap pollutants indoors. When weather permits, open windows and use fans to promote cross-ventilation. C&C Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric can help ensure your ventilation system is working optimally for maximum airflow and comfort.
4. Go Green with Plants
Certain indoor plants, like spider plants and peace lilies, can help filter out pollutants and improve indoor air quality naturally. Plus, they add a touch of greenery to your home—a win-win!
Indoor Air Quality Experts in Central New Jersey
Summer should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, not worrying about indoor air quality. By understanding and combatting common pollutants with these tips, you can breathe easier all season long.
Whether it’s installing air purifiers, conducting thorough system inspections, or offering advice on maintaining a healthy home environment, we’ve got you covered. Just give us a call at 732-860-2660 or visit us online.