Common Indoor Air Quality FAQs in Houston, TX

Signs of poor indoor air quality include persistent allergies, respiratory problems, dry or irritated eyes, coughing, or frequent headaches. If your home feels dusty, musty, or stuffy, it could also be a sign that your indoor air quality needs improvement. A professional HVAC service, such as the one we offer at P & M Air Conditioning and Heating, can conduct an air quality test to assess pollutants and suggest solutions to improve it.

To maintain good indoor air quality, it’s essential to change your HVAC filters every 1-3 months, depending on the type of filter and your home’s conditions. For households with pets, children, or allergies, more frequent changes may be necessary. A clogged or dirty filter can reduce airflow, making it harder for your HVAC system to work efficiently and can even allow pollutants to circulate through your home. Learn more about air filter replacement here.

Air purifiers can help remove contaminants from the air, such as dust, pet dander, and even viruses and bacteria. Installing a high-quality air purifier in your home can significantly improve your indoor air quality, especially if you live in an area with high levels of allergens or pollution. At P & M Air Conditioning and Heating, we offer advanced air purification systems that can be integrated with your HVAC system to clean the air in every room of your house.

Humidity plays a major role in indoor air quality. High humidity levels can encourage mold and mildew growth, while low humidity can lead to dry skin, respiratory issues, and static electricity. Maintaining balanced humidity is essential for comfort and health. A whole-house humidifier or dehumidifier can help you achieve optimal indoor humidity levels. Our experts can help you find the right solution for your home in Houston.

Yes, your heating system can impact indoor air quality. Older or poorly maintained systems may spread dust, dirt, or allergens throughout your home. Additionally, certain heating systems, like gas furnaces, can contribute to indoor air pollution if not properly ventilated. Regular maintenance, cleaning, and filter changes are key to ensuring your heating system operates efficiently and doesn’t compromise your indoor air quality.

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are among the best options for improving indoor air quality. These filters are capable of trapping small particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings also indicate filter efficiency. For superior air quality, a filter with a higher MERV rating (MERV 11 or above) is often recommended. P & M Air Conditioning and Heating can help you select the best filter for your system.

Proper ventilation ensures that fresh air is constantly circulating within your home, preventing the buildup of pollutants like carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and moisture. A well-ventilated home reduces the risk of mold, improves comfort, and ensures that you breathe in cleaner air. We recommend installing a mechanical ventilation system or using an exhaust fan in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens to enhance ventilation and air quality.

Yes, poor indoor air quality can cause a variety of health issues, particularly for those with respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies. Long-term exposure to pollutants can lead to chronic respiratory problems, fatigue, headaches, and even cardiovascular issues. Maintaining good IAQ is essential to safeguarding your health and well-being. Regular HVAC maintenance, air purifiers, and humidity control can greatly improve indoor air quality and reduce health risks.

There are several ways to improve your indoor air quality without needing to replace your HVAC system. Start by regularly changing filters, cleaning ducts, and adding air purifiers. You can also use dehumidifiers or humidifiers to control moisture levels in your home. Finally, keep your home clean by reducing clutter, vacuuming regularly, and avoiding chemical cleaners that can release harmful VOCs into the air.

Yes, there are many eco-friendly methods to improve indoor air quality. Using non-toxic cleaning products, opting for natural air fresheners, and increasing indoor plants can help purify the air. Additionally, ensuring your HVAC system is energy-efficient and regularly maintained can reduce energy consumption while promoting cleaner air. For more eco-friendly IAQ solutions, contact our team at P & M Air Conditioning and Heating for expert advice.

Indoor plants can help improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Some plants also filter out common indoor pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde. While plants alone may not drastically improve air quality, they can be a beneficial addition to an overall strategy that includes regular HVAC maintenance and the use of air purifiers. Plants like spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants are known for their air-purifying properties.

If you suspect mold in your HVAC system, it’s important to address it promptly. Mold can cause serious health issues and spread quickly through your system. Start by turning off your HVAC system and contacting a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean the system. At P & M Air Conditioning and Heating, we offer mold removal and prevention services to ensure your system is safe and your indoor air quality is not compromised.

Pet odors can be reduced by regularly cleaning your home, especially the areas where your pets spend the most time. Use an air purifier designed to filter pet dander and odors, and consider using a higher-rated HVAC filter that traps smaller particles. Regular grooming of your pets and frequent washing of their bedding can also reduce allergens in your home. We can recommend the best solutions for managing pet-related indoor air quality issues.

Yes, a smart thermostat can help improve indoor air quality by allowing you to control your HVAC system more efficiently. Smart thermostats can optimize heating and cooling cycles, ensuring that air circulates properly and reduces the risk of stagnant, polluted air. They can also help maintain optimal humidity levels, reducing the growth of mold and mildew. For more information on upgrading to a smart thermostat, visit our website or contact our team.