Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality

Most people think of air pollution as an outdoor problem, mainly because that’s what media reports focus on. But the air inside your home can be just as polluted, maybe even more so. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a variety of health problems over time, and the effects of indoor air pollution can aggravate the condition of those already suffering from asthma, allergies and other illnesses.

How to tell if indoor air quality is bad? That can be difficult unless you have an indoor air quality monitor, because the airborne particulates that pollute the air — including chemicals, dust and other allergens — are largely invisible. However, there are symptoms of poor indoor air quality in your home that can alert you to potential problems. Here are eight warning signs to watch out for, and some tips for how to reduce indoor air pollution.

  1. Your Indoor Air Is Making You Sick: Allergies and Respiratory Issues

One of the most common signs of poor indoor air quality is an increase in allergies and respiratory problems. If you or your family members are suddenly experiencing more frequent bouts of coughing, sneezing or worsening asthma symptoms, it could be a sign of airborne contaminants in your home. These irritants can include:

  • Mold spores
  • Pet dander
  • Pollen
  • Dust mites
  • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

In some cases, poor air quality can even trigger allergies in people who have never had them before. If you or your family are sensitive to indoor allergens, you should consider installing air purifiers in your home as well as an indoor air quality monitor to keep track of them.

  1. Frequent Headaches

If you’re experiencing frequent and persistent headaches, poor indoor air quality could be the cause. Airborne pollutants in high concentrations can cause inflammation in your sinuses, leading to headaches or migraines, possibly accompanied by fatigue, dizziness and nausea. If these symptoms begin appearing with no other known cause, it might be time to investigate your indoor air quality.

  1. Insomnia and Fatigue

Poor air quality can have a big impact on your sleep quality, leading to insomnia and daytime fatigue. Airborne irritants can make it difficult to breathe easily at night, causing snoring, restlessness and trouble falling or staying asleep. A lack of quality rest can result in difficulty focusing during the day, decreased alertness, and reduced productivity at work or school. If you’re consistently waking up feeling tired despite getting your normal hours of sleep, your indoor air quality could be the culprit.

  1. Excessive Dust

While some dust is normal in a home, if you notice it rapidly accumulating on your furnishings, it is probably having a detrimental effect on your air quality. If you find yourself dusting more than usual or notice dust on surfaces shortly after cleaning, it could be a sign of inadequate ventilation and/or dirty or clogged filters or ductwork in your HVAC system. Reduce indoor air pollution in this case by replacing your filters, and have your heating and cooling system professionally inspected and cleaned.

  1.  High Energy Bills

Poor air quality can also cost you money. When you have an excessive amount of airborne particulates in your home, it collects in your heating and air conditioning system, making it work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures and reducing the life of your furnace. This means higher energy usage, higher utility bills, and more frequent HVAC maintenance and repairs.

  1. Unpleasant Odors

Bad smells are a sure sign that something unpleasant is in the environment, and it could be harmful. Those odors could be an indication of mold or mildew growth, or chemical fumes from household cleaning products or materials used in new carpet or furniture. Both can be irritating for people with allergies, elderly people and those with respiratory issues.

  1. High Indoor Humidity

Excessive indoor humidity not only feels uncomfortable but can also foster the growth of various pollutants. Ideal indoor humidity should be between 30-50%. If you notice constantly foggy windows and mirrors, damp surfaces and persistent musty odors, your humidity is probably too high and might encourage the growth of mold and mildew. Make sure you have enough ventilation in areas that are prone to mold growth, such as the basement and crawl spaces, and consider using a dehumidifier.

  1. Stale Indoor Air

If the air in your home feels stagnant or stuffy, it’s a sign of poor ventilation. This can lead to a higher concentration of indoor pollutants and accelerate other air quality issues. Proper ventilation is the key to how to reduce indoor air pollution and create a healthier living environment.

Concerned about your indoor air quality? Learn about our air purifier options! Contact the Apex Air team today.

 

Benefits of a Ductless Heat Pump: Is This Energy Solution Right for Your Home?

Ductless heat pump systems are experiencing something of a renaissance these days. Although they’ve always been popular among cost-conscious homeowners, they’ve recently become downright trendy across the nation. That’s partly because of the famed energy-efficiency of heat pumps in an era of high energy costs, but also because of the generous government grants and rebates available to homeowners to defray the cost of ductless heat pump purchase and installation.

Depending on your situation, a heat pump can be a great alternative to traditional HVAC systems. If you’ve been wondering, “Are ductless heat pumps worth it?” let’s explore their main benefits and help you choose the best ductless heat pump for your home. Here are the top 6 benefits of a ductless heat pump:

  1. Exceptional Energy Efficiency

One of the primary advantages of ductless heat pumps is their high levels of energy efficiency. These systems use advanced inverter technology and variable-speed compressors, allowing them to operate precisely as needed. This exact temperature/energy control results in significantly lower energy consumption compared to traditional HVAC systems. Ductless heat pumps can achieve Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings over 30, which is considerably higher than standard HVAC systems. This translates directly into lower utility bills and a reduced carbon footprint, making ductless heating and cooling an attractive option for cost- and environmentally-conscious homeowners.

  1. Customizable Zoning

One of the best ductless heat pump selling points is that they offer customizable temperature zoning. Unlike central HVAC systems that heat or cool your entire home as a single space, or zone, ductless systems allow you to create multiple zones to heat or cool individual rooms or areas independently. This means you can set the temperature in each room according to specific needs and occupancy. For example, you can keep your bedroom cool while maintaining a warmer temperature in the living room. This zoning capability not only enhances comfort but also contributes to energy-efficiency by eliminating unnecessary heating or cooling of unoccupied spaces.

  1. The Ductless Advantage

As the name suggests, ductless heat pumps eliminate the need for ductwork. This advantage is particularly beneficial for homes without existing ducts or where installing ductwork would be impractical or costly. The absence of ducts means no energy losses through ductwork, which can account for up to 30% of energy consumption in traditional forced-air systems. Homeowners can also avoid the expense of ductwork installation, repairs and regular maintenance, making ductless systems a more cost-effective solution in the long run.

  1. Versatile Installation

Ductless heat pumps offer versatility in terms of installation. They can be adapted to various home layouts and architectural styles, making them a great solution for both new construction and renovations. Ductless heat pump systems are a particularly useful option in older homes where adding ductwork would be difficult and expensive. Ductless units can be installed in spaces that are difficult to heat or cool, such as attics, basements, garages or sunrooms, providing comfort in areas where central HVAC systems are insufficient.

  1. Quiet and Low-Maintenance Operation

One of the best ductless heat pump benefits is their quiet operation. The lack of noisy ductwork and the advanced technology in the outdoor units result in a peaceful home environment. Routine owner maintenance is also simple and straightforward, mostly involving regular cleaning of the filters and keeping debris away from the outdoor units. Any maintenance or repairs beyond these tasks should be handled by a professional heat pump technician.

  1. Ductless Heat Pump Is an Eco-Friendly Choice

For environmentally conscious homeowners, ductless heat pumps are the most sensible choice. By consuming less energy than traditional HVAC systems, they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling. The best ductless heat pump can achieve efficiency levels as high as 300%, meaning they provide three times the amount of heat energy they consume in electrical energy. This high efficiency makes ductless heat pumps a good option for those seeking to reduce their home’s overall carbon footprint.

Is a Ductless Heat Pump Right for You?

Ductless heat pumps offer a lot of advantages, but it’s important to consider factors such as your local climate, the size of your home, and your specific comfort needs when deciding if they are the best choice for your situation. If you’re seeking an energy-efficient, flexible and modern solution for your home’s heating and cooling needs, a ductless heat pump may be the perfect fit. It’s a good idea to consult with your local heating and cooling professional to determine if a ductless mini-split heat pump system is the best option for you and your family.

If you’re ready for a new ductless heating system, the experts at Apex Air are ready to help! Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Why HVAC Maintenance Is Important for Home Comfort, Safety and Efficiency

As a homeowner, you can appreciate the important role your HVAC system plays in keeping you and your family comfortable all year round. But if you’re like most people, it’s something that works in the background without much interaction on your part beyond changing it from heat to cool and setting the temperature. It’s out of sight and out of mind, and it’s easy to forget about the importance of HVAC service until something breaks down.

But just like your car, your heating and cooling system needs proper upkeep to provide safe and reliable transportation for many years. There are several benefits of regular HVAC maintenance that go beyond just keeping things running smoothly and dependably that you might not have considered. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Here’s why HVAC maintenance is important:

Safety Concerns

One of the most important benefits of regular HVAC maintenance is that it helps keep you and your family safe. One of the most dangerous potential hazards is carbon monoxide poisoning. A unit that hasn’t been inspected and regularly maintained can eventually develop cracks in the heat exchangers causing carbon monoxide to leak inside the home.

Another potential concern is an electrical short caused by faulty wiring which can easily lead to a fire. Then there’s the possibility of your HVAC system breaking down during severely hot or cold weather, which can be a risk for the elderly or individuals with health issues. Personal safety is the primary reason why HVAC maintenance is important.

Increased Energy Efficiency

Without proper maintenance, the wear and tear from normal use over time, as well as debris and dust accumulation in the machinery and ductwork, poorly maintained coolant levels, and lack of routine lubrication will make your HVAC system work harder to deliver the same levels of comfort, resulting in higher utility bills. Regular professional maintenance can keep your expenses as low as possible.

Extended HVAC System Lifespan

Your HVAC is one of the primary systems in your home. Modern units are designed to have a long service life, but they will eventually wear out. Buying a new one is expensive, so of course you want to make it last as long as possible. Proper maintenance along with regular professional inspections can identify potential trouble points before they become major problems, helping you to avoid expensive repairs and extending the lifespan of your system.

Keeps Warranties Valid

If your home’s HVAC system is still under warranty, it’s important to remember that many companies will require proof of annual maintenance before they will approve a claim. Your local HVAC contractor will keep records of any service they perform on your system and can provide it to your insurer on request. Detailed maintenance records will also be helpful if you decide to sell your home.

HVAC Maintenance Improves Indoor Air Quality

Clogged air filters and accumulated dust and debris in your duct work can allow harmful airborne particulates to circulate in your indoor environment. These include potentially dangerous allergens and pathogens like dust, pet dander, pollen and bacteria that can cause illness, especially for people with asthma, allergies and other respiratory problems. Keeping your system clean through regular maintenance will greatly improve your indoor air quality.

HVAC Maintenance Can Save On Repair Costs & Energy Use

Keeping your heating and cooling system in good operating condition can save you significant money over time in several ways. One that has already been mentioned is enhanced energy efficiency. Studies have shown that regular HVAC maintenance tasks such as cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring proper airflow can reduce your electricity and gas usage by as much as 30%.

Another way routine HVAC inspections and maintenance can cut costs is by catching small problems early. By identifying and fixing minor issues before they escalate such as worn-out belts or dirty filters, you can save yourself from emergency repairs and unexpected breakdowns.  This proactive approach ensures your HVAC system runs efficiently and reliably.

Protects Your Home and Wallet With Predictable Budgeting

With a regular maintenance plan, you can better predict and budget for HVAC-related expenses. Instead of facing unexpected repair costs, you can plan for routine maintenance visits and minor repairs, making it easier to manage your home maintenance budget without having to worry about nasty surprises.

Regular inspections and maintenance performed by your local HVAC professional can help prevent costly repairs, lower your utility bills, increase the useful life of your system, and make you and your family more comfortable in your home. By maintaining your HVAC system regularly, you’re not only protecting your investment but also ensuring that your claims will be valid if something does go wrong with your system while it’s still under warranty. And finally, the comfort and security that you and your family will enjoy all year long is the most rewarding reason why HVAC maintenance is important.

When was the last time your system was serviced? Visit our Apex Air website to schedule an appointment and to learn more about our maintenance program.

Heater Maintenance: Signs Your Heater Needs Service

The temperatures are dropping fast. If you haven’t done it already, now is the time to start thinking about your heating system. It’s one of the most essential components of your house, so you want to make sure it’s in good working condition and ready to provide reliable warmth to your home all winter long.

You should pay close attention to your heating system’s operating characteristics after you turn it on for the first time this season. There are several tell-tale signs to watch out for that indicate you need professional heater maintenance, and still other signs your heating system needs to be replaced. If any of these problems are happening in your home, call your local HVAC contractor to ensure your family stays warm and cozy.

Here are 7 signs that your heating system needs maintenance:

  1. An Increase In Energy Bills

One of the most noticeable signs that your heating system needs attention is a sudden increase in your energy bill. There can be legitimate reasons for your furnace to work harder and lead to higher costs, such as unusually cold temperatures, or drafts from damage or renovation. But without such causes, if you’re paying a lot more than last winter at the same rates, your heater may need repair. If, on the other hand, it’s your rates that are going up, consider switching to one of Apex Air’s high-efficiency furnace options.

  1. Overdue Heater Maintenance

If your furnace hasn’t been inspected and serviced for over a year, it’s a good idea to schedule a service call now before the cold weather arrives. Your heating system requires regular maintenance and inspection to keep it operating properly and efficiently. This will not only ensure the best performance from your furnace, it will allow for the discovery of minor issues before they become serious ones, extend the lifetime of your system by keeping it lubricated and free of dust and debris.

Manufacturer warranties require proof of annual maintenance to be valid. We offer a service plan that will save you money and ensure your heating system never misses a tune-up.

  1. A Yellow Pilot Light

If things are operating properly, the pilot light in your furnace should be a bright blue color.  If your flame is yellow, that could be a sign that your furnace has a carbon monoxide leak. You may also smell gas if this is the case. Because this is a poisonous gas, this should be checked out by an HVAC professional immediately. Due to its flammable nature, you should turn your furnace off as well. If you suspect carbon monoxide, or if you have a very strong gas smell, you should open the windows and get out of the house until it is inspected.

  1. The Furnace Is Making Strange Noises

Your furnace will make some noises even when it’s operating normally. You get used to these sounds and usually don’t notice them anymore. But if you start hearing unusual pops, squeaks, creaks, banging or rattling, it’s time to get your furnace inspected and repaired before loose or unlubricated components cause major damage.

  1. Slow Heating Performance

While it’s not unusual for your heating system to take a while to increase the temperature inside your home, especially when you’ve just turned it on for the first time of the season, if it’s taking a significant amount of time to reach your temperature setting, it’s a sign that there could be a problem. It’s a good idea to be proactive and have it checked.

  1. Furnace Cycling On and Off Frequently

Your furnace should operate in predictable cycles, turning on when the temperature drops below the thermostat setting and off when the desired temperature is reached. Frequent cycling, where the system turns on and off more often than usual, can be caused by overheating, an oversized furnace or thermostat malfunctions.

  1. Uneven Home Heating

If you’re experiencing noticeable temperature differences between rooms in your home, your heating system may be struggling to distribute the heat evenly throughout due to blocked ductwork or other problems requiring professional attention.

Have you noticed any of these trouble signs with your heating system? Trust the experts at Apex Air for all of your heating maintenance needs.