Indoor Air Quality | Air Conditioning Repair Katy

The Sources of Pollution

The sources of indoor air pollution commonly include the following: 

• The combustion process of fossil fuels such as natural or propane gas, wood or others, produce deadly carbon monoxide gas. Routine maintenance and inspection of the appliance, chimneys and vent pipes will ensure safe operation. A poorly operating gas furnace can result in a hazardous condition, and poor air quality. Contact us today to schedule heating and/or air conditioning repair in Katy.
• Building materials and furnishings are a source of pollutants such as the VOC’s formaldehyde, dust mites, and mold. Sources include insulation, carpet, cabinetry and furniture constructed of pressed wood, glues, drywall, flooring, and paint.  

Furthermore, formaldehyde causes formic acid to develop on the copper tubing of HVAC units. This can cause pinholes resulting in a refrigerant leak, and the need for air conditioning repair in Katy. Manufacturers are responding by changing the tubing to aluminum, which is unaffected by the chemical.

• Household cleaning and personal care products, such as air fresheners, laundry products, soap, shampoo, deodorant, and a large number of others.
• Hobby and home improvement tasks, including painting, varnishing, using adhesives, and more. 
• Radon occurs due to the natural decay of uranium, and can leak from the ground into the home. 
• Pets with fur or feathers are a source of dander and are a catalyst for allergies and asthma in sensitive individuals. Routine brushing and bathing will assist in reducing the amount of dander, and other irritants.
• Dust mite populations increase during the winter. Dust mites are present on household surfaces, upholstered furniture, draperies, carpets, and bedding. 
• Mold and mildew can develop in tightly constructed homes, especially if a lack of fresh air is a problem. Steam from the bathroom and the kitchen increases the amount of moisture in the home, and creates an environment for mold and mildew to grow. 
• Viruses and bacteria thrive in the warm, closed environment of the home. 
• A smoker in the home is a serious source of indoor pollution. Treat second hand smoke by not allowing anyone to smoke in your home.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Improving indoor air quality requires controlling the source, improving ventilation, and providing air cleaners or air purifiers. Source control involves direct intervention at the source of pollution. The following are examples of source control:

• Gas appliances may require adjustment of the gas pressure supplying them. 
• Ensuring the ventilation pipes of gas appliances are free of obstructions will ensure the proper exhaust of carbon monoxide. When you call for maintenance or heating and air conditioning repair in Katy, our technicians include inspecting your HVAC system ventilation pipe for damage or obstruction.
• Regular cleaning will reduce dust mite populations and other pollutants.
• The use of exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen will assist in removing excess moisture from bathing and cooking. After showering, allow the fan to run for 20 minutes after your bath is complete to remove moisture. 
• Test for radon, and have a professional seal the home if detected.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors, with at least one on each floor and near bedrooms.

• Purchase all natural, toxin free cleaners. Read the labels of products thoroughly to assure it is all natural. 
• Launder bedding weekly in hot water and dry in a hot dryer. Cover mattresses and pillows with dust mite protectors, and consider hardwood flooring or tile rather than carpet. 
• Purchase Low or no VOC products for hobbies, home improvement projects and when remodeling. If possible, wait for warmer weather and ventilate with open windows and doors. 
• When the weather permits, increasing ventilation by opening windows and doors is an easy way to increase ventilation and reduce indoor pollutants. 
• Replace furnace filters routinely. The average low cost blue or green fiberglass air filter does not remove pollutants. While they capture larger particles that can damage the HVAC system, smaller particulates pass right through the filter, and into the system. This will eventually result in damage to components, and the need for heating and air conditioning repair in Katy.
• A HEPA air filter captures airborne pollutants as air circulates through the system. Quality filters provide cleaner air and reduce the need for heating and air conditioning repair in Katy. Check filters often, ideally about every two weeks and replace as necessary. However, keep in mind, not all HVAC systems are designed for the use of a HEPA filter, and use may result in premature wear and tear on the system resulting in the need for heating and air conditioning repair in Katy.
• HEPA air purifiers, and other air cleaners can provide significantly cleaner air. A number of products with a variety of features are available for installation in conjunction with the home’s heating and air conditioning system in order to provide cleaner air for the entire home. Give us a call for additional information.

Signs of Poor Ventilation

The signs of poor ventilation are quite visible and consist of condensation on walls or windows, stale air, mold or mildew, musty odors, or dirty HVAC equipment. 

A properly operating HVAC system capable of using a HEPA filter will provide significant assistance in improved indoor air quality. Maintaining a clean, properly operating system will also assist you in receiving cleaner indoor air. Contact our Nate certified experienced technicians today for heating or air conditioning repair in Katy. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers professional expertise in heating and air conditioning installation, heating and air conditioning repair in Katy, and more. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.