Fall is considered one of the most beautiful seasons, with the changing leaves and crisp air infiltrating. However, for many people, it also means an increase in allergies and other issues due to poor air quality. But how can this be? Below we’ll discuss how autumn affects indoor air quality and what you can do to stay prepared.
Colder Air and Pollutants
Most people have heard the saying “heat rises,” which is why in the summertime, many people find solace in basements or lower levels of their homes. However, during the summer and springtime, pollutants also rise along with heat. During hotter months, you’ll notice fewer allergy issues indoors since pollutants will rise with the hotter, more humid air.
When the temperatures drop, cooler air tends to sink and accumulate in the lowest parts of your home. This can lead to a buildup of pollutants, such as dust and pet dander, lingering at ground or eye level indoors. For people who are sensitive to these allergens, lingering pollutants can cause discomfort and even respiratory issues.
Moisture and Mold
Fall often brings more moisture in and around the home due to the cool, wet weather. For instance, you might notice a pile-up of debris lingering on your roof, which then leads to mold growth or algae buildup on your roof shingles. If left untreated, mold can easily spread from your roof to the inside of your attic, insulation, and the rest of your home.
Other areas where moisture can accumulate and cause mold to spread during the fall include condensation on pipes, window sills, and even basements. Unfortunately, mold can grow rapidly in these areas and release spores into the air that can worsen allergies or cause respiratory issues. If you notice any mold growth, it’s essential to address it right away before spores lead to coughing, wheezing, and other allergy symptoms. Check your HVAC system and replace filters to ensure all mold spores are eliminated from your home.
Poor Ventilation
Poor ventilation is also a significant contributor to poor indoor air quality during the fall. When the weather cools down, you might tend to keep windows shut and rely on your heating system to circulate air throughout the home. However, this can also lead to stale and stagnant air indoors, especially if you have an older HVAC system or if your filters are clogged.
Without proper ventilation, pollutants such as dust, pollen, and pet dander can become trapped inside your home. Take care to make sure your home has proper ventilation during the fall months by regularly changing air filters and checking that all vents are clean and unobstructed. You can also schedule ductwork cleanings and inspections to ensure that your HVAC system is functioning correctly and not contributing to poor indoor air quality.
More Viruses Indoors
With the colder months and holidays approaching, people tend to spend more time indoors. Unfortunately, this also means an increase in viruses and bacteria circulating within the home. With heating systems running continuously, these pollutants can linger in the air for longer periods, increasing the chances of getting sick. Air purifiers are a great option for removing viruses and bacteria from the air, keeping you and your family healthier during the fall and winter months.
Additionally, regular cleaning and disinfecting of commonly used surfaces can also help reduce the spread of germs. Still, surfaces are only part of the problem. If you notice an uptick in colds and other illnesses during the fall, it could be due to poor indoor air quality. Contacting a professional HVAC company to install an air purifier, UV light filter, or other air quality solutions can make a significant difference in keeping you and your family healthy during the fall.
Stay Prepared with Affordable HVAC Solutions
As the fall season approaches, it’s essential to be aware of how the weather can affect your home’s indoor air quality. To stay prepared, be sure to schedule regular maintenance and cleanings for your HVAC system with Affordable Service Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning! We’re here to provide top-notch HVAC and IAQ services in Richmond, KY, and the surrounding areas. Call us today if you need help with anything from commercial services, AC repair and replacements, geothermal heat pump installation, and much more! Our team of experienced technicians is dedicated to providing affordable and reliable solutions to improve your home’s indoor air quality all year long.
