Improve Indoor Air Quality During Summer

Summer makes us think of sunny days, trips to the beach or park and working on our tans. But the season also brings challenges that affect our home air quality. Humidity, pollen and pollutants wreak havoc on our indoor space. Air quality is crucial for our well-being, so minimizing harmful particles makes the air we breathe safer and prevents health risks. 

How does the sunny season impact air quality and what can you do to improve it? With a few handy tips, you can boost air quality to make the most of those lazy summer days!

Factors Affecting Air Quality During Summer

Seasons bring their own unique elements that influence indoor air quality. Here are a few of the ways summer contributes to the condition of the air in our homes:

Higher Temperatures

Temperature and air quality go hand in hand. As the mercury climbs, the air quality drops. We know about ozone, but did you know there's “good” and “bad” ozone? Good ozone in the upper atmosphere protects us from UV rays. Bad ozone occurs at ground level and contributes to smog. Hotter temperatures increase ground-level ozone pollution, which causes health risks. 

Warmer weather means increased levels of pollen. To counter the heat, you may open windows in your home or run the AC. This gives pollen the perfect means to enter our homes through openings or the HVAC system. Together with dust and mold, these airborne nasties wreak havoc on our well-being.  

Extreme heat can cause wildfires in dry provinces. The pollutant-producing smoke from these fires may travel to surrounding areas.  

Increased Humidity

Humidity is the concentration of water vapour in the air. It is ever-present, but the levels change according to the season. More moisture in the atmosphere leads to increased indoor humidity levels in summer. Higher humidity decreases air circulation, trapping pollutants. It also creates ideal conditions for bacteria and viruses to breed. In winter, a drop in humidity dries out the air, causing a different set of challenges. 

The humidity levels indoors can impact air quality in the following ways:

  • Increases indoor pollutant concentration that affects comfort and well-being 

  • Degrades materials through excessive moisture

  • Influences chemical pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which may contribute to health and skin problems

  • Affects the emission rates of VOC-producing materials

  • Creates an ideal environment for biological pollutants, which can trigger respiratory infections, allergies or asthma

Air Pollutants

Pollutants thrive in the air in the summer. The balmier temperatures produce ideal breeding conditions. Pollutants that contribute to poor air quality include:

  • Combustion sources: These are byproducts of combustion from outdoors or indoors. Examples include smoke from tobacco and fires. 

  • Natural substances: Particles from natural sources include pet dander and mould.

  • Chemicals: Cleaning supplies, insecticides and paint may impact air quality.

  • Outdoor sources: Pollutants from outside may enter buildings through windows or ventilation systems. People may track particles of radon in the home. Radon is a radioactive gas found in rocks, soil and water that harms humans. 

Summer Indoor Air Quality Tips 

You know how the sunny season influences air quality, but what can you do to improve it? Follow these handy tips to breathe free this summer: 

1. Test Indoor Air Quality

The first step is testing your home's indoor air quality. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advocates testing indoor air quality every second year. The test reveals the presence of unsafe particles such as radon, mould, VOCs or carbon monoxide. You can buy a test kit, but it is best to hire a professional who can provide knowledge and solutions. 

Since higher temperatures cause more pollutants, keep an eye on your indoor temperature. An indoor thermometer helps you gauge heat inside the house. Investing in a quality air conditioning unit creates a more comfortable living environment. Continue to monitor indoor temperature and air quality to adjust as needed. 

2. Clean Often 

As much as we wish our homes were self-cleaning, sometimes we need to roll up our sleeves and pick up the duster. Cleaning removes many of the culprits responsible for poor air quality. To boost the air quality in your home, adopt a regular weekly routine that includes:

  • Mopping tiled or laminated floors to eliminate dirt and allergens.

  • Changing and washing bedding often to eradicate dust mites

  • Dusting with a microfiber duster or damp cloth — remember to tackle those often-ignored shelves and corners.

  • Using a high-efficiency air (HEPA) filter vacuum on carpets and rugs to remove particles trapped in the fibers. 

Many household products carry toxic chemicals that emit pollutants. Choose natural cleaning agents and avoid those containing VOCs. Examples of products with VOCs include chemical deodorizers, aerosols and oven cleaners. 

3. Use Dehumidifiers 

Humidity creates a playground for bacteria and contributes to poor indoor air quality. Relative humidity (RH) measures the water vapour level in the air. The EPA recommends an indoor RH of between 30% and 50%. Running a dehumidifier reduces the moisture in the air. An alternative is a heat pump that acts as a dehumidifier, air conditioner and heater. 

4. Ensure Natural Ventilation

Increasing outdoor air in our homes lowers indoor pollutants and transports contaminants. Cooling or heating systems move stale air around while natural ventilation regulates temperature. Invite fresh air into your home by opening windows or doors. Run bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans to remove contaminants. They also reduce moisture and encourage outdoor ventilation.  

You may prefer to keep windows closed to prevent outdoor contaminants from entering. In this case, contact a professional service provider for guidance. They can provide a solution to circulate healthy air inside your home.

5. Maintain HVAC System 

Your HVAC system keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter. It transports air around your home. Dust collects in the system, which is then released into the air. Maintaining your HVAC ensures greater indoor air quality. Schedule regular inspections of air conditioners and heat pumps. The technician cleans and services the equipment to ensure optimal performance. 

The filters in your heating and cooling systems trap dust, dirt, and debris. Once they get clogged, this effect reverses. For optimal performance, change the air filters at least every three months. 

Improve Home Air Quality This Summer With Boss Mechanical

Summer is about sunshine and lazy days, but it brings challenges that affect air quality in your home. Boss Mechanical offers indoor air quality solutions for comfort in any season! We've provided our clients in the greater Toronto area with healthier air for over 14 years. Trust our qualified team to deliver top-class advice, installation and maintenance. We're so sure you'll be happy with the results that we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee!

Visit our website to browse our comprehensive range of indoor air quality products. Call us at 416-875-6450 or contact us for more information on our services. 

Jazlyn Robinson