Air pollution issues in the Clearwater area make it clear that indoor air quality services are absolutely necessary. In fact, the American Lung Association found that Florida’s Tampa Bay region scored a C rating for ground-level ozone over the past three years.
There are also several other categories to consider, too. For instance, the typical summer humidity is between 75% and 90%. Also, the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can cause nausea, headaches and dizziness.
What can you do to boost your indoor air quality? First, let’s learn about the most common indoor pollutants in Florida homes. Next, we’ll help you discover how to reduce pollutants and allergens in your house.
Quick Takeaways
- Humidity levels typically exceed 75% in Florida.
- The best way to avoid mold is with a dehumidifier and air filtration.
- VOCs are a common concern in Florida and can cause sinus infections.
- Florida warm climate and high humidity cause indoor air quality problems.
Common Indoor Air Pollutants in Florida Homes
Everything from particulate matter to carbon monoxide can cause great concern to Clearwater’s homeowners. Aside from avoiding the following pollutants, you may also need to improve ventilation to feel better.
Dust, Pet Dander and Pollen
The humid climate in Florida makes it the perfect place for dust, pet dander and pollen to accumulate. These can make people with allergies feel sick, but there are a few ways to control them.
For example, you can use air filtration and a dehumidifier. Also, vacuum weekly, along with washing your bedding weekly in hot water. The good news is that we feature air filtration and purification systems, plus whole-house humidifiers and dehumidifiers.
Mold and Mildew from Humidity
Unfortunately, Florida provides the perfect breeding ground for mildew and mold. Again, this is caused by Florida’s high humidity. The humidity typically stays above 70%, in fact, which enables mold and mildew to grow.
To steer clear of mold and mildew in your Clearwater, FL, home, it’s vital to run a dehumidifier. Another proven way to help control humidity is by running your air conditioner. Once you combine these options, you’ll experience better indoor air quality.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are commonly used in household products, industrial processes, building materials and agriculture. If you’re exposed to too many VOCs, you may experience fatigue, headaches, asthma attacks and sinus infections. In some cases, VOCs may even cause cancer.
High temperatures can make the effect of VOCs even worse. It’s vital to run your air conditioner, use air purifiers and increase ventilation.
Smoke and Combustion Gases
Indoor combustion and smoke provide significant indoor air pollutants. Smoke can come from a wide variety of sources, including tobacco smoking or wildfires. Meanwhile, indoor combustion issues may expose you to formaldehyde or carbon monoxide.
There are a few ways to reduce the amount of smoke and combustion gases in your home. First, it’s essential to use proper ventilation. Additionally, add air filtration and limit indoor smoking to take care of these pollutants.
How Florida’s Climate Affects Indoor Air Quality
Florida’s climate is warm and has high humidity. As a result, allergens and dust can have a bigger impact on your family. Furthermore, the climate helps mildew and mold growth.
Poor ventilation can trap pollutants indoors, so it’s wise to improve your home’s ventilation. Plus, using air purifiers and dehumidifiers has been shown to improve indoor air quality.
Signs Your Indoor Air Quality May Be Poor
There are many different indicators of poor indoor air quality.
These include:
- Fatigue, headaches and dizziness
- Increased respiratory or allergy issues
- Lingering odors
- Visible mildew or mold
- Stagnant, stuffy air
- High condensation and humidity levels
- Rashes
How to Reduce Allergens and Pollutants Indoors
The points listed below can all help you reduce indoor pollutants and allergens. Additionally, don’t forget to vacuum weekly, fix any leaks and take your shoes off at the front door.
Improve Ventilation and Air Circulation
Portable air cleaners will remove particles and fans can help push stale air outside. Create as much airflow as possible by opening your doors and windows. It’s also a good idea to consider installing whole-house fans.
Control Humidity and Prevent Mold Growth
It’s necessary to keep your house at 30% to 50% humidity, but it usually exceeds 75%. Therefore, the best way to control humidity is with a dehumidifier.
This will benefit your family in a number of ways. For instance, by preventing mold growth, you can also avoid the associated:
- Asthma attacks
- Dry cough
- Skin rashes
- Fatigue
- Congestion
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
Use HEPA Filters and Air Purifiers
Using a high-quality HEPA filter and air purifier can help trap approximately 99.97% of pollutants. Our indoor air quality solutions make it easy to reduce pollution and improve your family’s health.
Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Regular preventative maintenance enables us to catch issues before they become a major problem. In other words, if your indoor air quality has started to diminish, scheduling preventative maintenance is a good way to boost it.
FAQ
Do you have questions regarding your indoor air quality? Please check below, then give us a call if you need further information.
Does a HEPA air filter remove mold?
Yes! As long as you’ve purchased a true HEPA filter, it will trap and remove mold spores from the air.
How can I tell if there is mold in my house?
Indicators of mold may include health symptoms, visible patches of discoloration and a musty odor. By using a HEPA air filter, along with a dehumidifier, your family can remain safer.
What kills 100% of mold?
Unfortunately, there is no single product that has the power to kill 100% of mold. You can get really close, though, by using an air purifier with a HEPA filter. This combination removes 99.97% of mold spores.
Schedule an Indoor Air Quality Check for Your Florida Home Today
Are you experiencing issues with your indoor air quality? Contact our professional team at Clearwater One Hour AC & Heating today! We’re always on time or you don’t pay a dime.