What is IAQ?
IAQ stands for Indoor Air Quality, which is the measure of how clean and healthy the air is inside your home or building. Good IAQ depends on several factors, including:
- Dust and allergens levels
- Humidity levels
- Presence of pollutants (e.g. Volatile Organic Compounds or VOC)
- Ventilation quality
- Temperature consistency
- Biological contaminants (e.g., mold, bacteria, viruses)
Why Does IAQ Matter?
Poor indoor air quality can impact your health—both short- and long-term.
Short-Term Effects of Poor IAQ:
- Coughing, sneezing, or congestion
- Headaches or dizziness
- Eye, nose, or throat irritation
- Worsened allergy or asthma symptoms
- General Fatigue
Long-Term Effects:
- Neurological issues
- Heart disease
- Chronic respiratory issues
- Increased cancer risk
What Affects Indoor Air Quality?
Several everyday factors can influence your IAQ:
- Indoor temperature and ventilation
- Humidity control
- Air filtration qaulity
- Household pollutants (I.e., cleaning supplies, fumes)
- Pet dander, mold, and other biological contaminants
How Can I Improve IAQ?
Take these steps to create a healthier indoor environment:
- Maintain your HVAC system: change filters regularly and clean ducts)
- Control humidity with humidifiers and dehumidifiers
- Use better air filters (I.e., MERV-13)
- Try a Heat Recovery or Energy Recovery Ventilator
- Properly seal and insulate your home
- Use air purification systems for enhanced filtration
Is Your IAQ Poor?
Ask yourself:
- Does your home feel dusty or dirty despite regular cleaning?
- Do your allergies worsen indoors?
- Is there dust building up quickly around vents?
- Do you feel better when away from home?
- Are there unexplained odors in certain rooms?
- Do you notice excess humidity or condensation?
- Is your skin dry, itchy, or irritated?
If you answered yes to a few of these, it may be time to get an indoor air quality test and regain control of your health and comfort!
For more information, contact the Pierce Refrigeration team, and one of our experts will guide you in finding your solution.
Need 24-7 emergency service? Looking for advice on improving your everyday air quality and comfort at home and work? Contact the friendly staff at Pierce Refrigeration at 800-696-1088 or email us at: info@piercerefrig.com.