Staying cool is typically the number one priority when it comes to indoor comfort during the summer. However, there are other things that you should consider if you want to be as healthy and comfortable as possible. Namely, you need to make sure that your indoor air quality is as high as possible. Indoor air quality is affected by a number of things, but the two major factors are humidity and contaminants levels. If you want to know how to keep these factors under control, read on.
Contaminants and Air Purifiers
One of the most harmful factors to indoor air quality is difficult to even recognize much of the time. The average home is full of all kinds of microscopic airborne contaminants, including dust, pollen, dander, viruses, bacteria, and mold spores. Your body can defend against these contaminants in small amounts. However, homes without much fresh air flow can accumulate high enough concentrations of contaminants that they become an issue. Negative side effects from exposure to these contaminants can range from allergy attacks to the flu, and can exacerbate conditions like asthma.
The way to deal with these contaminants is to install an air purifier of some sort. Air purifiers are designed to remove a wide range of contaminants from the home’s air supply, using a range of different methods. Ionization purifiers, for example, use clouds of ions to draw contaminant particles out of the air. Air filters use fiber mesh to capture any contaminants that are carried into them. UV air purifiers don’t physically remove contaminants, but they do use ultraviolet light to kill off any germs that might be present. This helps prevent you from getting infected. Consult with a professional about what the best air purifier for your home would be.
Humidity Levels, Humidifiers, and Dehumidifiers
Everyone knows that an excessively dry or humid day can be very uncomfortable. However, there are bigger issues caused by humidity imbalances than simply making things uncomfortable. Chronically high humidity will make it harder for your body to keep itself cool, as it raises the evaporation point of liquids like sweat. However, it also promotes mold growth throughout the home. This will further lower your indoor air quality, as mold spores can make you quite sick.
Chronically dry air, by contrast, will weaken your body’s defenses against infection. Your skin and nasal passages will dry out and crack, making it easier for various germs to infect your system. Dry air saps the moisture from furniture and books, as well, which will make them more brittle and easily damaged. Installing a humidifier or dehumidifier will help keep your home humidity levels balanced. As with air purifiers, you should consult with a professional to see what kind of system would fit your needs best.
Climate Masters offers comprehensive indoor air quality services in St. Johns, FL. If you need help improving your home’s indoor air quality, we can help you out. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert technicians.
