Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a major part of keeping your home healthy and comfortable, but many people overlook it. Studies show that poor indoor air can have serious effects on your health. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the air inside your home can be up to five times more polluted than the air outside. The World Health Organization (WHO) also reports that indoor air pollution contributes to over 3 million premature deaths each year.
Since most people spend about 90% of their time indoors, it’s important to recognize the warning signs of poor indoor air quality. Here are the most common signs to watch for:
1. Persistent Allergies and Breathing Problems
One of the biggest signs of poor IAQ is an increase in allergy or breathing issues. If you or your family members are experiencing:
- sneezing
- coughing
- itchy or watery eyes
- worsening asthma
it may be due to indoor allergens like dust mites, mold, pet dander, and pollen. Even people who normally don’t have allergies may develop symptoms when the air quality is bad.
2. Unpleasant or Musty Odors
Bad smells that don’t go away, even after cleaning, are another sign of poor indoor air. Musty, stale, or chemical-like odors can come from:
- mold or mildew
- high humidity
- VOCs (chemicals from cleaners, paint, and home products)
Persistent odors often mean the air in your home isn’t circulating or filtering properly.
3. Excessive Dust Buildup
If dust returns quickly after cleaning, it may be due to:
- dirty or clogged HVAC filters
- poor ventilation
- dust mites
- lack of routine AC maintenance
Too much dust in the air can make allergies worse and lower overall air quality.
4. Condensation and Mold Growth
Condensation on windows or walls often means your home has too much humidity. High moisture levels can create the perfect environment for mold to grow.
If you notice:
- mold spots
- peeling paint
- a damp or earthy smell
then your indoor air quality is likely being affected. Addressing moisture problems quickly is important to protect both your health and your home.
5. Frequent Headaches or Fatigue
If you or your family often feel tired, dizzy, or get headaches at home, poor air quality could be the cause. These symptoms may happen when:
- there is too much carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the air
- there is not enough fresh air
- ventilation is poor
Improving airflow in the home can help reduce these symptoms.
6. Stale or Stuffy Air
Air that feels heavy, stuffy, or stale usually means the house is not getting enough ventilation. Without proper air exchange, indoor pollutants build up and make the air feel uncomfortable.
7. High CO₂ Levels
When your home doesn't get enough fresh air, CO₂ levels can rise. High CO₂ can make you feel:
- sleepy
- unfocused
- sluggish
As part of a heating maintenance visit, we can check your CO₂ levels and recommend ways to improve ventilation.
8. Inconsistent Temperature or Humidity
Rapid changes in temperature or humidity can affect comfort and indoor air quality. For example:
- High humidity → mold growth and musty odors
- Low humidity → dry skin, nose irritation, and static electricity
Keeping humidity levels stable and comfortable is an important part of maintaining good IAQ.
Contact LA Heating and Air
Recognizing the signs of poor indoor air quality is the first step in creating a healthier living environment. By paying attention to these indicators and taking appropriate measures—such as improving ventilation, reducing allergens, scheduling routine HVAC maintenance and addressing moisture issues—you can significantly enhance the air quality in your home.
Ensuring good indoor air quality not only promotes health and comfort but also contributes to overall well-being. Give us a call today or contact us online to schedule your HVAC maintenance, we are here to help you! Schedule your service for your Encino or San Fernando Valley Home.
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