Summer brings sunshine, warmth, and open windows—but it can also mean increased allergens, humidity, and stagnant indoor air. While most people focus on staying cool, the quality of the air inside your home is just as important as the temperature. If your air conditioner is running full-time, but you’re still dealing with musty smells, allergies, or a general sense of stuffiness, it may be time to take a closer look at your indoor air quality.
At Aire Serv of Middletown, we understand that a comfortable home isn’t just about temperature. Clean, breathable air is essential to your health, especially during the hot and humid summer months. Here’s how to identify air quality issues—and what you can do to fix them.
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters More in the Summer
When it’s hot outside, most homes are sealed tight to keep the cool air in. That’s great for your energy bill, but not so great for circulation. Pollutants, allergens, and excess moisture get trapped indoors, which can lead to:
- Allergic reactions
- Increased asthma symptoms
- Headaches or fatigue
- Musty odors
- Mold growth
Homes in Middletown, especially older ones or those surrounded by greenery, often deal with elevated pollen counts and humidity in the summer. If your home feels heavy, sticky, or stale, your indoor air quality may be to blame.
Common Indoor Air Pollutants
Knowing what’s in your air is the first step to improving it. Some of the most common indoor air pollutants include:
- Dust and dust mites
- Pollen and pet dander
- Mold spores
- VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from paints and cleaning products
- Smoke and cooking fumes
- Bacteria and viruses
These particles can circulate through your HVAC system and settle into your furniture, rugs, and ductwork—unless you take proactive steps.
Tip 1: Upgrade Your Air Filter
Not all air filters are created equal. While basic filters capture large debris like dust and hair, high-efficiency filters (like HEPA filters) can trap much smaller particles, including pollen, pet dander, and mold spores.
Check your air filter every month during heavy-use seasons like summer, and replace it at least every 60–90 days. If you have pets or allergies, you may need to replace it more often.
Tip 2: Invest in an Air Purifier
Air purifiers are an excellent supplement to your HVAC system. Whole-home systems can be installed directly into your ductwork, while portable models are useful for bedrooms or home offices.
Look for purifiers with true HEPA filters and activated carbon for the best results. These models remove both particles and odors from the air, leaving your home fresher and healthier.
Tip 3: Control Your Humidity
Middletown summers can get muggy, and indoor humidity levels often rise as a result. High humidity doesn’t just make your home feel sticky—it can also encourage mold growth and make airborne allergens harder to manage.
Aim to keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. If your AC system isn’t doing the job, a dehumidifier can help regulate moisture levels. Some HVAC systems can even be upgraded with built-in humidity control for added efficiency.
Tip 4: Clean Your Ductwork
Your duct system acts like the lungs of your home. Over time, it can collect a surprising amount of dust, debris, and allergens. If it’s been several years since your ducts were cleaned—or if you’ve recently completed a home renovation—consider scheduling a professional duct cleaning.
This helps your HVAC system operate more efficiently while also improving the overall cleanliness of the air that circulates throughout your home.
Tip 5: Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
A clean and properly functioning HVAC system is key to good indoor air quality. During a routine maintenance visit, the technicians at Aire Serv of Middletown will:
- Clean the condenser and evaporator coils
- Check for mold or mildew growth
- Replace filters
- Inspect ductwork and airflow
- Ensure that your system is not circulating contaminants
Preventive maintenance not only improves air quality—it also helps extend the life of your system and reduces energy costs.
Tip 6: Keep Pollutants Out
Sometimes the simplest steps are the most effective. You can reduce indoor air pollution by:
- Removing shoes at the door
- Keeping pets groomed and bathed
- Using natural cleaning products
- Avoiding candles and aerosol sprays
- Ventilating when cooking
Try to keep windows closed during high pollen count days and vacuum regularly with a HEPA-filtered vacuum to reduce dust and allergens.
The Aire Serv of Middletown Difference
Every home is different. At Aire Serv of Middletown, we offer customized solutions for improving indoor air quality based on your home’s layout, your HVAC system, and your unique health concerns.
Whether you need a whole-home air purification system, duct cleaning, or just a simple maintenance tune-up, our team is here to help you breathe easier all summer long.
Call Aire Serv of Middletown today to schedule your indoor air quality assessment or HVAC service. A healthier home starts with cleaner air.
