Also called particulate pollution, particulate matter is a mixture of liquid and solid particles in the air that vary in size. While much of it is outdoors, particulate matter can also occur indoors. The Environmental Protection Agency warns that particles of 10 micrometers or smaller can cause serious health effects when you inhale them. However, you can reduce the number of indoor pollutants in your Palm City, FL home by taking a few steps.
Improve Indoor Air Quality With Ventilation and Controlled Humidity
In general, the best quality air is air that moves. Opening the windows increases the amount of fresh air in your home or business. Another option is to leave the vent control open on a window air unit. You can also turn on the fan on your HVAC system to circulate the fresh air.
Indoor humidity is an important element too, and it should be 30 to 50 percent. Humidity gauges are available at just about any hardware store. You can increase the humidity with a humidifier or by boiling water. On the other hand, you can reduce the humidity with a dehumidifier.
Clean the HVAC System and Change the Filters Regularly
Keeping your HVAC system clean is essential to minimizing indoor pollutants. In fact, an unclean system can cause poor indoor air quality. Cleaning it involves removing dust, dirt, and other debris from the ducts, vents, and outdoor housing. You also need to change the air filters at least every three months. However, you might need to change them sooner based on the HVAC manufacturer’s recommendation. It’s important to change them even more frequently if you have pets, allergies, or asthma.
Remove Particulate Matter With an Air Cleaner and Plants
If you want to take cleaning your air to the next level, you can buy an air cleaner. There are many products available. While air filters remove particles from the air, gas-phase air filters remove polluting gases too. Other cleaners use ultraviolet light or other technologies to destroy various pollutants.
Believe it or not, bringing plants indoors can help keep particulate matter to a minimum, according to NASA research. Some plants that the researchers recommend include English ivy, snake plant, peace lily, bamboo, spider plant, and weeping fig.
Do you need assistance with cleaning your HVAC system? Take a look at Krauss & Crane Air Conditioning’s regular HVAC maintenance services. Call (772) 222-3827 for an estimate.