How To Improve Indoor Air Quality in the Fall: Simple Steps for a Healthier Fishers Home

As the crisp air of fall sets in around Fishers and temperatures drop, we tend to spend more time indoors, making indoor air quality (IAQ) a key factor for maintaining our health and comfort.

While the crisp autumn air outside might feel refreshing, the same cannot be said about the air indoors. Things can get a little stuffy as allergens, mold, dust, and other pollutants are more likely to circulate indoors during this time of year.

From strategic ventilation to keeping those filters squeaky clean, a few tweaks can turn your home into a breath of fresh air all season long. Our team at Star Heating & Cooling wants to share some practical steps you can take to improve indoor air quality during the fall season.

How To Improve Indoor Air Quality in the Fall

With windows closed tight to keep out the chill, allergens, dust, and even the occasional mold spore can settle in for a cozy stay. And let’s not forget about that furnace, kicking up a season’s worth of dust and debris the moment it springs to life.

But don’t worry—improving indoor air quality doesn’t mean opening every window and freezing your toes off. Let’s dive into some tips that’ll have you inhaling more easily this fall!

1. Change and Upgrade Air Filters

Your Indiana home’s HVAC system plays a significant role in managing indoor air quality. It is a great time to replace old air filters with new, high-quality ones as fall begins. Standard filters trap large particles like dust but consider upgrading to HEPA filters, which capture smaller pollutants such as pet dander, pollen, and smoke particles. Change your air filters every one to three months during this season to ensure they remain effective.

2. Clean and Maintain HVAC Systems

A well-maintained HVAC system is crucial for circulating clean air throughout your Fishers home. Fall is the perfect time for scheduling a professional inspection and cleaning of your heating system.

Dust, mold, and other allergens can build up in the ducts over time, and a deep cleaning of your ductwork can also help reduce these pollutants.

Consider installing a whole-home air purifier such as the Infinity Air Purifier GAPA or an ENERGY STAR^® air cleaner in conjunction with your HVAC system to further improve air quality and minimize the debris that builds up in your system.

3. Control Humidity Levels

Humidity levels tend to fluctuate during the fall, often dropping as the weather cools. Low humidity can cause dry skin and respiratory issues, while excess humidity encourages the growth of mold and mildew.

Aim to keep indoor humidity levels between 30 and 50 percent. Use a humidifier if your Fishers home becomes too dry and a dehumidifier in areas like basements and bathrooms where moisture can build up.

4. Ventilate Your Home Regularly

Even as temperatures drop, it’s important to let fresh air circulate through your home. Open windows and doors for a few minutes each day to bring in outdoor air and reduce the buildup of indoor pollutants.

Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to help remove moisture and odors, especially after cooking or showering, while attic ventilation fans can help release stuffy air.

5. Prevent and Address Mold Growth

Mold spores thrive in damp, dark environments, making fall a prime time for mold growth in areas such as basements, attics, and bathrooms. Regularly inspect your home for signs of mold, particularly after rain or in high-humidity areas.

Repair any leaks or water damage immediately to prevent mold from growing. Consider using mold-resistant paint to keep it from taking hold in areas prone to moisture.

A UV light for your heating and cooling system can help eliminate mold spores around your home before they can take root.

Air Quality Support From Wizards of Comfort

Improving indoor air quality in the fall doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By taking a few simple steps—such as maintaining your HVAC system, controlling humidity, and keeping mold growth in check—you can create a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment for you and your family.

As we head into the colder months, prioritizing clean air will help ensure that your Fishers, IN home remains a safe haven from outdoor allergens and pollutants. Reach out to Star Heating & Cooling, the Wizards of Comfort, at 317-349-0990 for more information today, or get started on your way to better indoor air quality by scheduling an appointment online with one of our heating pros.