How Indoor Air Quality Affects Your Health, and What You Can Do About It
Most people spend the majority of their time indoors, yet few consider the quality of the air they’re breathing. Whether you’re relaxing at home, working remotely, or sleeping through the night, your indoor environment plays a major role in your overall health.
In places like Chilliwack and the Lower Mainland, where seasonal shifts and weather patterns vary throughout the year, indoor air quality (IAQ) can fluctuate more than you might expect. Dust, pet dander, pollen, mold, and even household cleaning products can all contribute to poor air quality, and the effects go far beyond occasional sneezing.
Let’s explore how IAQ impacts your well-being and what steps you can take to make your home a healthier place to live.
The Hidden Health Effects of Poor Air Quality
Breathing polluted indoor air doesn’t always lead to immediate symptoms, but over time, it can have a lasting impact. You may experience mild issues like dry eyes or headaches, or more serious complications such as respiratory problems or aggravated allergies.
Some of the most common health effects include:
- Allergy Flare-Ups: Dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander can trigger sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes.
- Asthma Symptoms: Poor ventilation and airborne irritants can worsen asthma and other respiratory conditions.
- Sleep Disturbances: Polluted indoor air can make it harder to sleep by irritating your nasal passages or causing nighttime coughing.
- Fatigue and Brain Fog: High levels of carbon dioxide or other pollutants can reduce oxygen levels, affecting concentration and energy.
- Long-Term Risks: Continued exposure to poor IAQ has been linked to chronic respiratory diseases and even cardiovascular issues.
For children, seniors, and individuals with compromised immune systems, the risks are even more significant.
Why Your Home’s Air Gets Worse Over Time
Modern homes are built to be energy-efficient, which often means they’re well-sealed to prevent drafts. While this helps keep heating and cooling costs down, it also means that airborne particles and pollutants stay trapped inside.
Everyday activities like cooking, vacuuming, using scented products, or burning candles add more particles to the air. Without proper ventilation and filtration, these particles build up, especially during months when windows stay closed.
And then there’s the seasonal factor: in spring and fall, pollen and moisture can enter the home and mix with dust and indoor pollutants, creating a perfect storm for poor air quality.
The Role of HVAC Systems in Indoor Air Quality
Your HVAC system does more than just control temperature, it plays a critical role in air circulation and filtration. But if your system is outdated, dirty, or improperly maintained, it may actually contribute to poor air quality.
Common HVAC-related contributors to poor IAQ include:
- Dirty or clogged air filters
- Dust-filled ductwork
- Mold or mildew in ventilation systems
- Poorly balanced airflow or blocked vents
When properly maintained, your HVAC system can actively improve indoor air by circulating fresh air, removing particulates, and regulating humidity levels.
Steps You Can Take to Improve Your Indoor Air
Improving your home’s air doesn’t require a major renovation, but it does take a combination of smart habits and regular maintenance. Here are a few practical steps:
Replace Air Filters Regularly
HVAC filters trap dust and allergens, but only if they’re clean. Depending on the filter type and household conditions, replacement should happen every 1–3 months.
Invest in Air Purification
HEPA filters, UV lights, and whole-home air purifiers can help eliminate bacteria, mold spores, and even viruses from the air.
Schedule Duct Cleaning
Over time, your ducts can accumulate years of dust and debris. A professional duct cleaning helps restore clean airflow throughout your home.
Use Exhaust Fans Properly
Kitchens and bathrooms should have working exhaust fans to remove moisture, odors, and airborne particles generated by cooking or bathing.
Check for Mold and Moisture
High humidity or water leaks can lead to mold, which releases harmful spores into the air. Keep humidity in check and inspect for water damage regularly.
Maintain Proper Ventilation
Make sure your home has adequate airflow, especially in rooms that tend to get stuffy. This can include opening windows when weather allows or installing a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) for balanced air exchange.
Professional Help Makes the Difference
Improving indoor air quality isn’t always a DIY task. In many cases, persistent issues stem from deeper HVAC or structural concerns that need a trained eye.
At Cohesive Mechanical, we offer comprehensive services that go beyond basic filter changes. From air quality assessments and duct cleaning to ventilation upgrades and whole-home purification systems, we tailor our solutions to meet your needs and budget.
If you’ve noticed lingering odours, allergy symptoms, or just want peace of mind about the air in your home, we’re here to help.
Breathe easier this season, contact us today to book an indoor air quality assessment or HVAC tune-up with our expert team.