Got a sore throat, a cough that just won’t go away, or difficulty catching your breath? It may have plenty to do with the air you breathe. Recent studies by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency suggest that the air pollution inside your New Orleans-area home may be two to five times greater than the pollution outdoors. For anyone with allergies or severe asthma, that’s definitely something to think about.

Perils of a Polluted Home

Many homeowners underestimate the impact that poor indoor air quality can have on the household. Indoor air pollutants like pollen, dust mites, pet dander and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can trigger a wide variety of symptoms, from watery, itchy eyes to shortness of breath and frequent headaches. These pollutants also may trigger severe asthma attacks in children, the elderly, and others who are especially vulnerable.

Dust particles, mold spores and bacteria droplets are a common presence in a home with poor indoor air quality. The U.S. EPA ranks these and other indoor air pollutants as among the top five environmental risks to public health.

How to Fix It

Fixing poor indoor air quality isn’t as simple as cracking open a door or a window. Steps need to be taken to provide relief and improve your health and well-being inside your home:

  • Keep an eye on your HVAC air filters and change them as recommended. Most filters require changing every 30 to 90 days.
  • Inspect and seal ductwork as needed. Consider a professional duct cleaning if you notice dust and debris coming out of, or gathering near, vents and registers. Various allergens and micro-organisms are likely being carried in the dust.
  • Increase or improve your home’s ventilation. Trickle vents are a simple solution that require few tools and are easy to set up.
  • Consider investing in a high-efficiency air cleaner. Available in whole-house and portable models, these devices can significantly reduce the level of allergens and pathogens lurking in your home.

To learn more about the dangers of poor indoor air quality, call on the pros at Bryans United. Contact us whenever you need heating and air conditioning solutions in Frisco, Allen and the surrounding areas.

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