Indoor Air Quality Tips for Healthy Homes this School Year

As the kids head back to school in our area, parents everywhere are focused on new supplies, after-school schedules, and making the transition from summer to fall. But there’s one important factor you might not be thinking about, your home’s indoor air quality, or IAQ.

Good IAQ plays a major role in your child’s health, especially during the school year when homework, extracurricular activities, and earlier bedtimes mean more time spent indoors. Poor air quality can aggravate allergies, trigger asthma symptoms, and even contribute to more frequent colds. The good news? A few proactive steps can help your family breathe easier all season long. In this article, we’ll talk about indoor air quality, and ways you can improve yours. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters for Kids

Children’s lungs are still developing, which makes them more sensitive to airborne irritants like dust, pollen, pet dander, and spores. Factor in germs from the classroom, and you’ve got a recipe for sniffles that can easily follow them home. By improving your IAQ, you help protect their health, reduce allergy flare-ups, and create a more comfortable environment for study and sleep.

Tips for a Healthier Home This School Year

If you’d like to improve your indoor air quality, following these tips can help:

• Check HVAC Filters Regularly: Your air filter is your home’s first line of defense against dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. During high-allergy seasons, make sure to check your HVAC filters regularly and change them as needed.
• Keep Up with Routine HVAC Maintenance: A well-maintained heating and cooling system not only runs more efficiently but also helps keep indoor air cleaner. Empire Heating & Air Conditioning offers comprehensive tune-ups to ensure your system is circulating fresh, healthy air all year long.
• Consider Air Purification Solutions: For families dealing with allergies or asthma, whole-home air purifiers or UV air cleaners can make a big difference. These systems help remove pollutants and neutralize bacteria and viruses before they reach your living spaces.
• Control Humidity Levels: High humidity can encourage microbial growth, while air that’s too dry can irritate sinuses and skin. Aim to keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50% for optimal comfort and health.
• Keep Floors and Surfaces Clean: Dust and allergens don’t just float in the air, they settle on floors, rugs, and furniture, too. Regular vacuuming, plus weekly dusting, can significantly reduce airborne irritants.

Empire can help you get the indoor air quality solutions you need.

When the school year gets busy, it’s easy to overlook indoor air quality, but making it a priority can pay off in fewer sick days, more restful nights, and a more comfortable home environment. If you’d like to learn more about improving your home’s IAQ or want to schedule a maintenance check, Empire Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. Our team proudly serves Decatur and the surrounding communities with expert HVAC service and indoor air quality solutions tailored to your family’s needs.