Home Warranty Company Shares Tips for Better Air Quality at Home

Wildfires have been a big problem in California. Even if you don’t live in the path of a wildfire, you can still be affected. Wildfire smoke can travel for hundreds of miles. You can breath in smoke, even if you don’t live anywhere near the wildfire. If your community is experiencing high levels of outside smoke, you’ll want to stay inside with your windows and doors closed. Here’s how to stay safe and to improve your indoor air quality when smoke blows your way.

Change Your AC Filter

Your HVAC system cycles air through your home. The air filter reduces the pollutants in the air, but as the filter gets dirtier, it works less efficiently. Use a high-efficiency filter with a MERV rating of 13 or better. Leave your AC on instead of auto, so that the air is constantly filtered. Running your AC so much may increase its service needs. Get an HVAC warranty in California to reduce your overall costs.

Invest in Indoor Plants

A couple of ferns or lilies improve air quality in your home because plants are nature’s natural air filters. Plants improve your décor. Blooming plants can be uplifting, while keeping air temperatures lower. You’ll feel in touch with nature, even though you’re inside. Plants can also reduce stress and improve productivity.

Avoid Activities That Decrease Indoor Air Quality

Burning a candle, using a gas stove and running a whole house fan during high smoke days can increase indoor pollution. Keep your doors and windows closed. You may even want to avoid vacuuming or dusting to prevent dust from being spread around when air quality is poor. If you do need to clean up, use a damp cloth or mop to trap dust particles.

Check Your Air Ducts

Have your HVAC system serviced and check the air ducts for dirt and grime. Ask about HVAC coverage in California for service and repairs to make sure your system is working at peak efficiency. You don’t want to contribute to poor air quality when you’re forced to stay inside to protect your health.

Consider a California Certified Air Cleaning Device

If a family member suffers from asthma or another respiratory problem, you may want to consider a CARB-certified air cleaner. Mechanical air cleaners don’t use ozone to reduce pollutants. Instead, the air is actually filtered through pleated or HEPA-style filters. These machines can keep your home cleaner of air pollutants during any season in which the air quality is reduced.

Control Humidity in Your Home

Humid conditions increase the risk of mold and mildew in your home, which in turn increases the air pollutants. Your HVAC system should reduce the humidity, but a dehumidifier can help maintain comfortable living conditions without having to reduce the temperature.

Find the Best Home Warranty with HVAC Coverage in Arizona and California

HomeGuard HomeWarranty offers an HVAC protection plan and twice yearly inspections with our Home Warranty plans for California and Arizona homes. Contact us or call 1-866-993-2301 for more information.