Summertime brings particular air quality issues for Arizona homeowners. Monsoon thunderstorm season brings extreme heat and high humidity levels which can create challenges for your HVAC system and indoor air quality. With windows and doors shut and the air conditioner on for comfort, indoor air quality can decline to unhealthy levels.

Here are six ways to maintain your home’s indoor air quality during monsoon season and beyond:

1. Replace Air Filters

   The first line of defense to keep indoor air quality high is your AC air filter. During the summer monsoon thunderstorm season, haboobs (dust storms) can form generating huge amounts of dust and debris which can quickly overload your HVAC system. This excess dust and debris eventually get trapped in your air filters and ductwork. By getting in the habit of regularly replacing air filters, you can minimize much of the contaminants from entering your inside air. Ideally, filters should be replaced at least every 30 days during the summer months.

2. Keep Indoor Dust Levels Down

   For family members with respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and COPD, summer dust storms can be very problematic. The American Lung Association recommends a regular schedule of dusting and vacuuming to help keep indoor dust levels down.

3. Use Localized Ventilation

   Turn on range hoods and exhaust fans when cooking or showering to reduce indoor humidity levels. Using ceiling fans and portable fans can be useful to reduce heat levels in nearby rooms.

4. Keep Out Mold and Mildew

   Fix any leaky indoor plumbing which can contribute to the growth of mold and mildew and decreased air quality. Regularly check and clean areas in your bathrooms where standing water or excess humidity may reside resulting in mold and mildew.

5. Add Indoor Plants

   Adding more indoor plants can help clean indoor air of carbon dioxide. Plants can even reduce formaldehyde, benzene, and VOC toxins.

6. Whole-House Air Purifier

   Your experienced air conditioning technicians at Bruce’s can provide you with an evaluation of your house’s air to let you know what particulates are circulating indoors. In some cases, a whole-house air purifier may be a wise decision to reduce your home’s air of dust mites, spores, mildew, fungus, bacteria, and other contaminants.

By incorporating these ways to improve your indoor air quality, you’ll be able to breathe a little easier during the hot months of summer. Call your professionals at Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating today at 480-968-5652 to schedule your appointment.