Whenever we see reports of poor outdoor air quality, the first thing we’re told to do is stay indoors. But how can we be sure that our indoor air quality is that much better?
As a homeowner, you know the importance of creating a comfortable and inviting space for your family. But other than having the walls and doors that keep the outside world, well, outside, are you doing enough to improve the quality of the air inside?
It’s a common pain point that often goes unnoticed until it starts causing discomfort or health issues.
That’s why, as experts in HVAC services, we at Dick’s Air Conditioning & Heating are here to shed light on the pressing matter of indoor air quality (IAQ), especially in Maryland.
Today we’re exploring the differences between outdoor air quality and indoor air quality, and sharing how our professional indoor air quality services can make a significant difference in your family’s health.
The Changing Landscape of Air Quality
You might be wondering: Why worry about indoor air quality when outdoor air quality seems to get all the attention?
Well, it turns out that the air inside your home can be several times more polluted than the air outdoors. Just take this statement from the Environmental Protection Agency:
“Americans, on average, spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors,1 where the concentrations of some pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher than typical outdoor concentrations.” – EPA
It seems counterintuitive. After all, our homes are protected from so many external elements. Yet it’s true that a variety of factors, from inadequate ventilation to the accumulation of pollutants from everyday activities, threaten the quality of our home’s air.
To understand this issue a bit more deeply, let’s first take a look at the factors that affect outdoor air quality.
5 Reasons Outdoor Air Quality Fluctuates
Outdoor air quality certainly gets more attention than indoor air quality, as it’s often mentioned at the same time as the weather report.
There are some clear factors affecting the air we breathe outdoors, and others that are less obvious. Here are five that end up having the most significant impact:
- Weather Patterns – Changes in wind direction, humidity levels, and atmospheric conditions all influence outdoor air quality.
- Industrial Activities – Emissions from factories and industrial processes can introduce pollutants into the air.
- Traffic Congestion – Vehicles emit pollutants that can significantly impact outdoor air quality, especially in urban areas.
- Natural Sources – Pollen, allergens, and dust from plants and trees contribute to outdoor air quality fluctuations.
- Wildfires and Natural Disasters – Events like wildfires release smoke and particulate matter, affecting air quality on a large scale.
5 Reasons Your Indoor Air Quality Is Suffering
With all that happens outside to impact air quality, it can be tempting to think we can shut out those problems just by shutting the door to our home.
Unfortunately, your indoor space is not necessarily better off. There’s a number of issues unique to our homes that can cause indoor air quality to suffer, including:
- Poor Ventilation – Inadequate airflow allows pollutants to accumulate indoors, leading to stale and polluted air.
- Indoor Activities – Cooking, cleaning, and using certain household products can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air.
- Dust and Allergens – Dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens can linger indoors and worsen air quality.
- Mold and Mildew – Damp areas encourage the growth of mold and mildew, which release spores into the air.
- Inadequate Filtration – Without proper air filters, pollutants and contaminants circulate freely through your home’s HVAC system.
How Professional Indoor Air Quality Services Can Help
We don’t write these all to cause any sort of panic. In fact, it’s the opposite! We wanted to outline these factors to show you how possible it is to resolve them.
With over 56 years of experience serving Prince George and Charles County, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch HVAC services to homeowners in Waldorf, MD.
Our recommendations prioritize quiet operation, minimal maintenance, effectiveness against a wide range of contaminants, and longevity. Here are two of our favorite options:
- The iWave air purifier – This device is installed directely into your HVAC system. It uses patented needlepoint bi-polar ionization (NPBI) technology to break down gases and contaminants, effectively improving your indoor air quality.
- The Air Scrubber by Aerus – This targets both surface and airborne pollutants using proprietary ActivePure Technology. This technology eliminates over 99% of viruses, bacteria, mold, and fungi, ensuring a healthier living space.
Call Dick’s HVAC for Indoor Air Quality Services You Can Count On
At Dick’s Air Conditioning & Heating, we’ve honed our expertise to provide the best whole-house IAQ systems available.
Our qualified technicians will work closely with you to find the best solutions for your IAQ needs. Breathe easier and live better with Dick’s Air Conditioning & Heating – your trusted partner in indoor air quality services.
Remember, the air you breathe matters. Let us help you create a healthier home environment with our professional indoor air quality services. Contact us today at 240-766-3497 or send us a message here to take the first step toward fresher, cleaner air for you and your loved ones.