Reasons to Test the Air Quality Inside Your Home

March 16, 2021

Because they’re hidden up in the ceiling and behind walls, air ducts often get the “out of sight, out of mind” treatment. However, that’s a dangerous mentality! Along with under-maintained HVAC systems, dirty air ducts are a leading cause of poor indoor air quality in New Orleans, LA. Continue reading to learn what harmful substances can be floating through your air and how an indoor air test can help you identify them:

  • Volatile organic compounds: Also known as VOCs, volatile organic compounds are harmful chemicals that can cause migraines and long-lasting health issues. VOCs often get in the air after a remodeling project was performed using harmful substances. If you recently remodeled or bought a new home, get an air quality test to identify any VOCs.
  • Carbon monoxide: Because it’s odorless, colorless and can literally kill you, carbon monoxide is called the “silent killer.” This gas is often found in homes that have an old or under-serviced furnace that’s leaking. Be sure to schedule HVAC maintenance in New Orleans, LA and have your air tested to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Asbestos: It’s an affordable and effective insulator, but asbestos is also a carcinogen. Fortunately, the substance was banned a few decades ago, but it can still be found in older homes. If you live in a home built before 1980, get an indoor air test to ensure there isn’t asbestos in the air.
  • Mold and mildew: Air ducts provide the perfect growing conditions for mold, mildew and other bacteria. On top of making your air stale and bad-smelling, mold can cause breathing problems, headaches and other health issues. An air test is the best way to detect mold in your home.
  • Pest droppings: It’s gross to imagine, but air ducts can be full of rodent or insect droppings. When forced air is blown through your vents, the air inside your home becomes contaminated with fecal matter. These droppings can cause health or breathing problems for family members, especially children or elderly people.

What can be done to improve your air quality?

If the results come in and your indoor air quality in New Orleans, LA is less than perfect, don’t fret—there are a few things you can do to improve your air quality. The top method is to have your air ducts professionally cleaned. We recommend having this service performed every three to five years. However, it never hurts to call a duct cleaning service more frequently than that if the need arises.

You can also do wonders to boost your air quality by changing your HVAC system’s air filters. In addition to removing allergens from the air, these filters block dust and problem-causing debris from harming your AC or heater.

Is it time for an inspection?

If your air quality is poor or if you’re having trouble with your HVAC system, don’t hesitate to call JMB A/C & Heating LLC. In addition to performing all of your HVAC maintenance in New Orleans, LA, we’re experts in air duct cleaning, inspections and installation. Get in touch today to schedule an appointment.

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