As fall arrives in Hillsboro, OH, cooler temperatures often lead to closed windows, trapping dust, allergens, and stale air indoors. Maintaining good indoor air quality (IAQ) is essential for a healthy and comfortable home, especially when temperatures dip to the chill zone. At Shafer Heating & Cooling, LLC, we’re committed to helping Hillsboro homeowners breathe easier this season. Here are practical tips to improve your indoor air quality and create a healthier home environment this fall.
Regular HVAC Maintenance
Your heating system plays a critical role in indoor air quality. Dust and debris can accumulate in your furnace or heat pump, circulating allergens throughout your home when the system runs. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing air filters, ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently and reduces airborne particles. In Hillsboro’s fall climate, where temperatures can fluctuate between 35°F and 65°F, a well-maintained system keeps your air clean and your home comfortable. Schedule a professional tune-up with Shafer Heating & Cooling, LLC to keep your system in top shape.
Use High-Quality Air Filters
Upgrading to high-efficiency air filters is a simple way to improve IAQ. Filters with a higher MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating capture more dust, pollen, and pet dander, which are common in Hillsboro homes during fall when windows stay closed. Replace filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and household factors like pets. Our team at Shafer Heating & Cooling, LLC can recommend the best filters for your system to balance air quality and airflow, ensuring a healthier home environment.
Control Indoor Humidity
Fall in Hillsboro can bring damp conditions, and excess humidity indoors can promote mold and mildew growth, worsening allergies. Aim to keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50% for optimal comfort and air quality. A dehumidifier or a whole-home humidification system integrated with your HVAC can help. If you notice musty odors or condensation on windows, it’s time to address humidity issues. Shafer Heating & Cooling, LLC offers solutions to maintain balanced humidity, protecting your home and health.
Ventilate Strategically
With windows closed to keep out chilly air, stale air can build up indoors. Strategic ventilation, such as using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms or installing an energy recovery ventilator (ERV), can refresh indoor air without sacrificing warmth. An ERV brings in fresh outdoor air while minimizing heat loss, perfect for Hillsboro’s fall weather. Our experts at Shafer Heating & Cooling, LLC can assess your home and recommend ventilation solutions to keep your air fresh and clean.
Address Dust and Allergens
Dust and allergens like pollen and pet dander can accumulate quickly in a sealed-up home. Regular cleaning, including vacuuming with a HEPA-filter vacuum and dusting with microfiber cloths, helps reduce these irritants. Consider adding an air purifier with a HEPA filter for extra protection, especially in high-traffic areas. For long-term IAQ improvement, Shafer Heating & Cooling, LLC offers advanced air purification systems that work with your HVAC to eliminate allergens effectively.
Create a Healthier Home This Fall
Poor indoor air quality can aggravate allergies and affect your comfort in Hillsboro’s cooler fall months. By following these tips and partnering with professionals, you can ensure your home remains a healthy sanctuary.
Shafer Heating & Cooling, LLC: You are just one call away from the comfort and savings you deserve!