Conquer Indoor Air Quality in Phoenix with a Whole-Home Approach!

Improving Indoor Air Quality | Phoenix Arizona: Learn how to Improve IAQ by taking a whole house approach: 602-824-9494. Struggling with allergies, asthma, or just a stuffy home in Phoenix or Glendale? Indoor air quality (IAQ) could be the culprit. But improving IAQ isn’t just about dust! It’s a multi-pronged attack on various pollutants lurking in your home.

This guide provides a room-by-room strategy to tackle common IAQ concerns in Phoenix homes:

Kitchens & Bathrooms:
• Moisture Matters: Fix leaky faucets and pipes – moisture is a breeding ground for dust mites and mold.
• Reduce Humidity: Run exhaust fans for 15 minutes after cooking or showering to combat moisture. Wipe down shower surfaces regularly.
• Mold Control: Disinfect any mold spots to prevent the spread of lung-irritating spores.

Living Rooms & Bedrooms:

• Declutter & Dust Regularly: Minimize dust by keeping spaces clutter-free and dusting weekly with damp cloths or microfiber.
• Deep Clean Upholstery: Use your vacuum hose attachment to clean upholstered furniture.
• Protect Against Allergens: Encase mattresses and pillows in allergen-proof covers. Wash bedding weekly in hot water (130°F).
• Filter Out Pollutants: Choose air filters with a MERV rating of 10-11 (MERV 5+ is the minimum). These filters capture dust, pollen, and other allergens before they circulate in your home.
• Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety: Install CO detectors on each floor, near sleeping areas, and by
attached garages for essential protection against this odorless, deadly gas.

Basements:
• Moisture Control is Key: Address moisture issues to improve overall IAQ. Repair leaky pipes, caulk air leaks around windows, stairs, and the foundation.
• Flooring Matters: Replace water-damaged carpet with vinyl flooring or bare concrete (better moisture resistance).
• Radon Testing & Mitigation: Radon, a naturally occurring carcinogenic gas, can seep into your home through the foundation or water lines. Test your basement for radon using a kit or contact a professional for testing and mitigation solutions.

By implementing these strategies in each area of your home, you can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family!

Choosing the Right Air Cleaner for Your Needs: A Consumer’s Guide

Considering an air purifier to improve your indoor air quality? This guide explores what to know when selecting an air cleaner for your home.

Air Purifiers: Variety and Effectiveness

Air purifiers come in all shapes and sizes, from budget-friendly table-top units to powerful whole-house systems. They vary greatly in their ability to remove particles from the air. While some excel at capturing dust, allergens, and other particulates, most table-top models have limitations.

What to Consider When Choosing an Air Purifier

Here are key factors to consider:

• Efficiency: Look for an air purifier with a high collection efficiency rate (percentage of pollutants captured) and a strong air circulation rate (cubic feet of air processed per minute).
• Maintenance: Consistent maintenance, as directed by the manufacturer, is crucial for optimal performance.
• Source Strength: Consider the strength of your pollution source. Table-top models might not be sufficient for powerful nearby sources. If you have sensitivities, air purifiers may be most helpful when combined with efforts to reduce the source itself.

Alternative Air Quality Solutions:

• Houseplants: While studies suggest houseplants can reduce some chemicals in lab settings, there’s no current evidence they significantly impact indoor pollution levels. Remember, overwatering houseplants can promote mold growth, potentially affecting allergy sufferers.

Air Purifiers and Radon Reduction:

• The EPA currently advises against using air purifiers for radon mitigation. These devices only partially address the issue and don’t reduce the amount of radon entering your home. The EPA is researching the potential of air purifiers for radon reduction, but for now, other solutions are recommended. Learn more about air cleaners

Breathe Easy: Improve Indoor Air Quality with Ventilation

Indoor air pollution? Don’t suffer! Here’s how proper ventilation can significantly improve your home’s air quality.

Source Control is King:

While ventilation plays a vital role, addressing the source of indoor air pollutants is always the most effective solution.

Fresh Air is Key:

When source control isn’t feasible, increasing outdoor air circulation can dramatically reduce indoor pollutant levels.

Traditional Methods for Improved Ventilation:

• Open those windows and doors! Weather permitting, open windows and doors to allow fresh air to naturally replace stale indoor air.
• Utilize fans strategically: Running window or attic fans can exhaust hot air and bring in fresh air. Window air conditioners with open vent controls also contribute to increased ventilation.
• Bathroom and kitchen fans are your allies: These exhaust fans not only remove contaminants from specific rooms but also enhance overall outdoor air ventilation.

Focus on High-Pollution Activities:

During activities that generate high levels of pollutants, like painting, using kerosene heaters, or engaging in welding/sanding hobbies, prioritize these ventilation strategies. Consider taking these activities outdoors whenever possible and the weather permits.

The Future of Ventilation in Homes:

Newer homes are incorporating advanced ventilation systems like energy-efficient heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) that bring fresh outdoor air in while minimizing energy loss.

Frequently Asked Questions: Arizona & Glendale Home Comfort

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions Arizona and Glendale homeowners have about their home comfort systems:

1. What Is Causing A Puddle Under My Water Heater In Arizona And Glendale?
A puddle under your water heater in Arizona or Glendale could be caused by several things:
• Leak: The most likely culprit is a leak somewhere in the water heater itself, its connections, or the pressure relief valve.
• Condensation: In drier climates, condensation on the outside of the water heater tank can sometimes appear as a puddle. This is less concerning but can indicate inefficient operation.

Recommended course of action: Turn off the water heater and consult a qualified plumber for inspection and repair.

2. What’s the Best Air Filter for Your Home?

The best air filter for your home depends on several factors, including:

• Air quality concerns: If you have allergies or respiratory issues, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter might be ideal.
• Pets: If you have pets, consider a filter designed to capture pet danger.
• HVAC system: Make sure the filter size matches your air handler unit.

Generally, a MERV 13 filter is a good balance between efficiency and affordability for most homes. Consult your HVAC professional for specific recommendations.

3. What Is the Average Life of a Commercial AC?

The average lifespan of a commercial AC unit can vary depending on usage, maintenance, and environmental factors. However, it typically falls within the range of 10-15 years. Regular maintenance is crucial for maximizing the lifespan of your commercial HVAC system.

4. Things that Make Your Indoor Air Quality Worse

Several factors can contribute to poor indoor air quality:
• Lack of ventilation: Fresh air circulation is essential. Open windows regularly and consider a ventilation system.
• Dust and allergens: Regular cleaning, vacuuming with HEPA filters, and changing air filters can help.
• Mold and mildew: Address moisture issues and promptly fix any leaks.
• Pet danger: Regular pet grooming and air purifiers can help.
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): Limit the use of harsh cleaning products and choose low-VOC paints and furniture.

5. Should You Hose Down Your Air Conditioner?

Gently spraying the outdoor unit’s fins with a hose can be helpful for maintenance but avoid using high pressure. High pressure can damage the delicate fins and reduce efficiency.

It’s important to turn off the power to the unit before cleaning. A qualified HVAC technician can perform a more thorough cleaning if needed.