Fall Cleaning Tips to Support Indoor Air Quality

Change Your HVAC Filter

Change the filter in your HVAC system every 30 to 90 days. Performing this task in the fall can get you off to a good start when you make the switch from cooling to heating. Once you do a thorough fall cleaning, it’s a good idea to start with a fresh filter.

Consider upgrading your filter to something with a MERV rating of 8 to 13. This traps a substantial amount of particulate matter without causing a restriction of airflow.

Dusting and Vacuuming

By frequently dusting surfaces and vacuuming flooring, you cut back on the amount of particulate matter in your home. This can help keep your HVAC filter clean for longer, allowing it to trap other contaminants.

Clean Vents and Registers

Wipe down your vent covers and registers. These areas often have a buildup of debris after a long summer of AC use. If there is a greasy coating on these covers, remove them, and wash them in soapy water. Make sure they are completely dry before putting them back on. Otherwise, you run the risk of developing rust or corrosion inside your ducting.

Control Humidity in Your Home

Cleaning can increase the relative humidity (RH) in your home. When the RH level rises above 55%, it can promote the growth of mold. Also, humid air can hold onto more particulate matter than dry air, negatively affecting your indoor air quality.

Run exhaust fans when you are cleaning or running appliances that use water, such as your washing machine. You can also invest in a whole-home dehumidifier to combat high levels of humidity. This device will remove moisture as your HVAC system runs.

Maintaining Entryways and Windows

Clean around your doors and windows once temperatures start to drop and they remain closed more often. Remove debris from grass and leaves as well as any mold that has formed. Mold spores circulating in your home can cause a widespread problem.

Install new weather stripping around doors and windows to help keep moisture and pests out of your home. This can also minimize heat loss once you are relying on your heating system more.

Support your indoor air quality this fall using these helpful tips. Contact us at B & B Cool Air in Lehigh Acres, FL for more information or to schedule an appointment for indoor air quality support.