Indoor Air Quality Solutions in Des Peres, MO | Breathe Easy

Indoor Air Quality Solutions in Des Peres, MO. What we breathe on a daily basis is at the core of living a healthy life. At SmartHouse, we’re here to make sure your Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is clean, safe, and supports your well-being. Poor IAQ can lead to fatigue, sinus irritation, shortness of breath, and other preventable health concerns. Fortunately, with the right equipment and attention, these issues can be addressed. You can contact our HVAC specialists today for a quote and to learn more about whole-home performance, indoor air quality, and other services we provide Des Peres, MO, homeowners.

Improving your indoor air quality (IAQ) is easier than you might think, and there are several approaches to make your home a healthier place. In this article, we’ll dive into:

• Preventable measures to avoid poor indoor air quality.
• Common risks and side effects of bad air quality in your home.

Factors That Influence Des Peres, MO, Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is shaped by multiple elements such as ventilation, humidity levels, airborne pollutants, and VOCs (VOCs). Gaining insight into these aspects is key to creating a healthier indoor environment.

A few things to consider include:

1. Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial for bringing in fresh air, reducing pollutants, and managing indoor temperature. There are two primary forms: natural ventilation, which allows air to enter through open windows and doors, and mechanical ventilation, including systems like exhaust fans and ERVs, that actively circulate air throughout the home.

While opening windows can improve airflow, it may introduce outdoor pollutants like pollen or vehicle emissions, making mechanical ventilation a better option in areas with poor outdoor air quality.

2. Humidity Levels

Balanced humidity (40-60%) is essential for preventing mold growth and reducing irritants like dust mites. Too much humidity can cause condensation on windows, musty odors, and potential long-term damage to your walls and furniture. Low humidity may lead to dry skin, irritated sinuses, and static electricity, and can also harm wood furniture and floors by causing them to crack or warp over time. Maintaining the right humidity level promotes a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment.

3. Airborne Pollutants

Everyday activities introduce a wide range of airborne contaminants, including dust, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, and VOCs from cleaning supplies, furniture, and building materials. Gas stoves and fireplaces can also release combustion byproducts like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide.

4. HVAC System Maintenance

Your HVAC system ensures that the air in your home is both circulated and filtered properly. Regular maintenance, such as changing filters every 1-3 months and scheduling professional tune-ups, keeps it functioning smoothly and helps maintain clean air. If your system is outdated, upgrading to energy-efficient models with enhanced air filtration can dramatically improve indoor air quality and comfort.

Indoor Air Quality Concerns For Des Peres, MO, Homeowners

Several factors could contribute to poor indoor air quality in your home. Contact SmartHouse today to learn how we can improve your indoor air and address all your HVAC needs.

Poor indoor air quality in Des Peres, MO, homes can have several negative effects on the health and well-being of the occupants.

5 Signs Your Home Needs Purification
Common Causes of Poor Indoor Air Quality

Immediate effects include:

Poor Sleep Quality

• Airborne pollutants, allergens, and fluctuating humidity levels can disturb your sleep cycle, contributing to snoring, asthma episodes, or overall discomfort at night.

Eye, Throat, and Skin Irritation

• Pollutants, dust, and chemicals can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and skin, leading to symptoms like dry eyes, sore throat, and itchy skin.

Fatigue and Headaches

• Prolonged exposure to VOCs from common household items like cleaners, paints, and furniture can lead to headaches, dizziness, and fatigue, with the potential for long-term neurological consequences.

Increased Risk of Illness

• Poor IAQ, especially in areas with inadequate airflow, can help viruses and bacteria thrive, contributing to the spread of colds, flu, and other illnesses among household members.

Longer term effects include:

Respiratory Issues

• Increased exposure to allergens (e.g., dust mites, mold, pet dander, pollen) can lead to asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems. This can be especially alarming for children, the elderly, or those with pre-existing conditions.

Heart Disease

• Microscopic particles of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in polluted indoor air can enter the bloodstream and cause arterial damage, raising the risk of serious cardiovascular conditions like heart attacks and strokes.

Cancer

• Poor indoor air quality can increase cancer risk due to long-term exposure to harmful pollutants such as radon, VOCs, and fine particulate matter, which have the potential to damage cells and DNA.

Steps to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Enhancing your indoor air quality can be straightforward. By following these easy steps, you can significantly reduce the spread of 99% or more of mold and bacteria in your HVAC system.

What should I do to improve air quality in Des Peres, MO?

• Maintain a Clean Home: To minimize allergens, vacuum regularly, dust frequently, and wash your bedding. Pay special attention to areas such as vents, baseboards, and carpets where dust and debris accumulate. Decluttering also improves airflow while reducing dust-trapping surfaces.
• Minimize Indoor Pollutants: Opt for greener cleaning products and avoid VOC-releasing products like aerosol sprays, scented candles, and harsh chemicals.
• Incorporate Air-Cleansing Plants: Snake plants and peace lilies are great for improving air quality. These air-purifying houseplants are easy to care for and effective at cleaning indoor air.
• Use Air-Cleansing Plants: Houseplants such as snake plants and peace lilies act as natural air purifiers. Find out more about the best plants for improving air quality here.
• Utilize Natural Airflow: Take advantage of excellent outdoor air quality by opening windows for a natural exchange of fresh air when conditions allow.
• Schedule HVAC Maintenance: Schedule professional HVAC maintenance twice a year to ensure your system is running efficiently.
• Change Filters Frequently: Dirty filters clog your system and reduce air quality. Check monthly and swap out filters to keep your indoor air clean and your HVAC efficient.
• Step Up Your Filtration Game: Use HEPA and MERV-rated filters to remove dust, dander, and airborne irritants.
• Optimize Humidity Levels: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 40% and 60% to prevent mold growth and reduce allergens. Use a whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier as needed to keep moisture balanced.
• Smart Climate Control: Using smart thermostats and IAQ sensors gives you better control over your home’s air quality and comfort levels. They help you detect changes and respond before problems arise.
• Refresh Your Air with an ERV: An Energy Recovery Ventilator enhances indoor air by exchanging stale air for filtered outdoor air, helping maintain ideal humidity and temperature levels.
• Breathe Easier at Home: Air purifiers such as the Daikin AMHP-250 and Aerus Air Scrubber help eliminate indoor air pollutants and boost overall air quality.

With a few easy adjustments, you can enhance the air quality in your Des Peres, MO, home or business and support better health for everyone inside.

Why SmartHouse for Des Peres, MO, Indoor Air Quality Solutions?

When it comes to improving air quality in your home, SmartHouse brings unmatched HVAC knowledge and full-service support to homeowners in Des Peres, MO.

We specialize in a number of different services for Des Peres homeowners, including:

• Attic System Replacement
• Ductless Mini Splits
• HVAC Tax Credit
• AC Replacement
• Air Conditioning Repair
• Boiler Installation
• HVAC Contractor
• Heat Pump Installation
• HVAC Maintenance

Our team is easy to get a hold of. You can give us a call, text us, or schedule an appointment online.

• Call us at 314-370-1816
• Text us at 314-310-2242
• Schedule An Appointment Online

With efficient, eco-friendly HVAC and Air Quality Control solutions, our Des Peres, MO, Air Quality Control pros are here to help.