Month: January 2018

When your HVAC system runs, it pulls outside air into your Liberty City, Texas, home. Unfortunately, that air may contain dust and other contaminants. Dust is actually a combination of several materials, including dead skin cells, dust mites, pollen and mold spores. Most of the time, your HVAC system’s air filter can catch this pollution. However, too much dust can cause poor airflow, unpleasant smells and health problems over time.

Too Much Dust Causes Poor Airflow

If you forget to change your air filter or if your ductwork has leaks or gaps, the filter can become clogged or dust and dirt could accumulate in your ductwork. Both of these problems reduce your HVAC system’s airflow, forcing it to work harder and use more energy. You might also deal with more dust, since your heater or air conditioner will likely spread it around your home.

Too Much Dust Causes Unpleasant Smells

Mold often has a musty smell. If you notice this smell but don’t see any mold in your home, it might be growing in the dust inside your ductwork or on your outdoor unit’s condenser coils.

You might also detect a burning smell from your furnace when you turn it on at the beginning of winter. This comes from dust that accumulates in the ductwork for your heater over the summer. It’s not a problem if it goes away in a day or two, but you should have your ducts cleaned if it lasts longer.

Too Much Dust Causes Health Problems

Dust holds a lot of viruses and bacteria, and it often causes sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes and other symptoms. Household dust may also contain lead, rodent and cockroach droppings, asbestos, pesticides, and other harmful substances. Keep it away from your HVAC system to prevent your indoor air quality from worsening.

JD’s AirNow is a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer with more than 30 years of HVAC experience. We can help you install, maintain and repair a variety of heating and cooling equipment. Call us at
(903) 759-7483 for quality service.

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Volatile organic compounds can become gases at low temperatures – a process called off-gassing. VOCs are common ingredients in fuel, glues, air fresheners, paints, perfumes and cleaners. They include acetone, formaldehyde, xylene, toluene and benzene. Volatile organic compounds can reduce the indoor air quality inside your White Oak, Texas, home. They may also cause health problems like eye irritation, headaches, dizziness, fatigue and trouble breathing. You can avoid volatile organic compounds by using natural products, adding ventilation and storing materials with VOCs carefully.

Use Natural Products

Fortunately, many natural products that don’t contain VOCs are available. Instead of using commercial air fresheners, you can make your home smell great with essential oils or potpourri. Simmer orange slices, cinnamon sticks, apple peels or cloves on your stove in a little water. Bake some cookies or an apple pie to enjoy a delicious dessert and a pleasant scent. Baking soda with water is an excellent cleaner, and you may also polish your furniture with olive oil and lemon juice.

Add Ventilation

Without adequate ventilation, volatile organic compounds can build up in your home’s air. You should install exhaust fans in your bathrooms and your kitchen. A whole-home ventilator can help remove contaminants. Open your windows or use fans when cleaning with commercial cleaners, paint or taking care of similar chores. If you feel dizzy while using a product with VOCs, take a break and step outside for fresh air.

Store Materials Carefully

Store paint, fuel, solvents and other substances with VOCs outside your home. Small amounts of volatile organic compounds can get into the air, even if you close the container. Storing supplies in a garage or a shed is better for your family’s health and your indoor air quality.

JD’s AirNow has over 30 years of heating and air conditioning experience. We can help you maintain, repair, and install a variety of equipment to improve your home’s indoor air quality. Call us at (903) 759-7483 for helpful expert service.

Image provided by Shutterstock