Why Indoor Air Quality Matters
The EPA estimates that indoor air can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. Given that most people spend around 90% of their time indoors, the quality of the air in your home has a direct impact on your health. For Eastern Idaho residents, local factors like dry climate, seasonal pollen, agricultural dust, and wildfire smoke make indoor air quality even more important to address.
1. Schedule Professional Air Duct Cleaning
Your HVAC ductwork is the respiratory system of your home. Over time, dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other contaminants accumulate inside your ducts. Every time your system runs, these particles circulate throughout your home. Professional duct cleaning removes these pollutants at the source, providing an immediate improvement in air quality that you can feel from the first breath.
2. Upgrade Your HVAC Filters
Not all air filters are created equal. The MERV rating system measures a filter's ability to capture particles. For most Idaho homes, a filter rated MERV 11 to 13 offers the best balance of filtration and airflow. Replace your filter every 60 to 90 days — or monthly if you have pets or during high-pollen seasons.
- •MERV 1-4: Basic filtration, captures large particles only
- •MERV 5-8: Better residential filtration, captures mold spores and dust
- •MERV 9-12: Superior residential, captures fine dust and auto emissions
- •MERV 13-16: Hospital-grade, captures bacteria and smoke particles
3. Control Humidity Levels
Eastern Idaho's dry climate means indoor humidity often drops below 30% in winter, which can irritate airways and dry out skin. In summer, evaporative cooling can introduce excess moisture. Aim to maintain indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. A whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier integrated with your HVAC system provides the most consistent results.
4. Ventilate Properly
Modern homes are built to be energy-efficient, but tight construction can trap pollutants inside. Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans when cooking or showering. Open windows on mild days to let fresh air circulate. Consider an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) if you want fresh air without losing heating or cooling efficiency.
5. Reduce Indoor Pollutant Sources
Many common household items release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants. Simple changes can make a significant difference:
- •Use low-VOC or zero-VOC paints and cleaning products
- •Avoid burning candles or incense indoors frequently
- •Remove shoes at the door to prevent tracking in outdoor pollutants
- •Vacuum with a HEPA-filter vacuum at least twice a week
- •Wash bedding weekly in hot water to reduce dust mites
- •Keep houseplants — some species help filter indoor air naturally
Start With a Professional Assessment
The most effective first step is a professional assessment of your HVAC system and air quality. A qualified technician can identify specific issues in your home and recommend targeted solutions. At DuctDuctClean, we offer free inspections for Idaho Falls and surrounding communities — contact us today to schedule yours.