HVAC/R Specialists Serving Reading & Berks County

HVAC Talk: How To Test the Air Quality in Your Home

Did you know that the air quality in your home could be causing your persistent illnesses?

Check out our list of steps you should take to improve the indoor air quality of your home.

Purchase an indoor air quality monitor

This might seem unnecessary, but purchasing an air quality monitor will save you both time and money in the long run. You should look for the monitor to have a humidity sensor to check for potential mold growth, a temperature sensor, a Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) sensor to detect potential building materials, particulate matter sensors to check for dust and other allergens, and lastly a sensor that measures the Air Quality Index (AQI).

Evaluate symptoms

Make a list of the symptoms you have been experiencing and keep track of the time of day these symptoms present themselves. This should be done over the course of a few weeks to weed out any short-term illnesses or symptoms that could be causing you to feel off. Symptoms like a scratchy throat and watery eyes, common allergy symptoms, can be determined to be caused by an allergic reaction to pollutants. In contrast, confusion and nausea can be symptoms attributed to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide and radon

Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that can build up to dangerous and even sometimes fatal levels without proper ventilation, hence the nickname “the silent killer.” Radon is another toxic chemical that can be present in your home,

Get an air purifier

Purchasing an air purifier could be a practical solution to removing allergens and particles from the air. There are many different options available when purchasing an air purifier, so do your research and determine which one is best for you. Just like HVAC systems and ductwork, regular maintenance and upkeep are critical to ensuring the maximum benefits are received.

Seek professional help

Having an expert and licensed professional’s opinion on the air quality in your home can only benefit you. Scheduling a technician to come out and take a look can reveal the cause of the problem and give you some tips to reduce the amount of stress and problems over time.