A well-maintained living room with an air conditioning unit, air purifier, and hygrometer, illustrating steps to maintain good indoor air quality in a healthy home environment.

Switching to air conditioning becomes a must as the temperatures rise in Indio. But while your AC keeps you cool, it can also circulate dust, allergens, and humidity, affecting indoor air quality. Whether dealing with desert dust or seasonal allergies, taking the right steps can help you maintain a healthier, fresher home.

In this guide, Anthem Air Conditioning & Plumbing shares simple yet effective ways to keep indoor air clean and comfortable all season long.

1. Prioritize Regular AC Maintenance

Schedule regular AC maintenance to:

Prevent Dust & Allergen Buildup: A neglected AC can spread dust, pet dander, mold spores, worsening allergies, and respiratory issues.
Maintain Strong Airflow: Dirty filters and clogged coils reduce airflow, making your system work harder and less effectively.
Keep Humidity in Check: A well-maintained AC helps control indoor humidity, preventing mold and mildew growth.
Boost Efficiency & Lifespan: Routine maintenance keeps your AC running smoothly, lowering energy costs and extending its lifespan.

Schedule professional AC tune-ups at least once a year to ensure proper airflow. At Anthem Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we provide thorough inspections, cleaning, and maintenance to keep your system running at its best.

Call 760-895-2621 to schedule your AC service before the summer season.

2. Change Air Filters Frequently

Change your air filters regularly to prevent allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander from spreading in your home. They also enhance energy efficiency by reducing strain on your AC system.

Identify the type of filters used in your AC to ensure optimal performance. Each filter type has specific maintenance guidelines.

For example:

HEPA filters must be replaced regularly, typically every 12 to 18 months. These filters trap small particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander.
Carbon filters are effective at absorbing odors and gases and should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, as they lose effectiveness over time.
Pre-filters capture larger particles and can often be washed and reused. They should be cleaned every 1 to 3 months to maintain proper airflow.

If you’re unsure which filters suit your system, contact our HVAC professionals in Indio for assistance.

3. Utilize Air Purifiers

Incorporate air purifiers with your AC system to remove allergens, pollutants, and harmful microorganisms. This ensures the air in your home remains clean and breathable.

Benefits of air purifiers include:

Reduced Allergies and Asthma Symptoms: Air purifiers filter out allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander. This alleviates respiratory issues and promotes easier breathing.
Elimination of Harmful Chemicals: They neutralize volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants released by household products, reducing health risks.
Reduction of Airborne Illnesses: Air purifiers trap bacteria and viruses and decrease the likelihood of airborne diseases, especially in enclosed spaces with AC systems running.

How to Choose the Right Air Purifier Model

Here are some tips to help you select the right air purifier for your AC unit:

Energy Efficiency: Opt for models with ENERGY STAR certifications for lower energy consumption.
Noise Levels: Choose units under 50 decibels for quiet operation in bedrooms or offices.
Room Size Compatibility: Ensure the purifier is suited for the space you want to cover.
Convenience Features: Look for adjustable fan speeds, programmable timers, and easy-to-use controls.

4. Maintain Optimal Humidity Levels

Monitor and control humidity levels to maintain good indoor air quality while using an AC system.

Humidity levels that are too high can promote mold growth and increase the number of dust mites, while low humidity can cause skin dryness, respiratory irritation, and aggravate allergies.

Aim for indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to keep the air comfortable and healthy. You can also use a hygrometer to measure and adjust the humidity regularly. If excess moisture becomes a problem, consider a dehumidifier.

5. Maintain Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation ensures that fresh air circulates throughout our space and helps reduce the accumulation of harmful substances, such as indoor pollutants and allergens. To improve ventilation:

Upgrade Ventilation Systems: Upgrade to more efficient models, like energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), that allow fresh air to enter without compromising heating or cooling efficiency.
Utilize Natural Ventilation: Open windows and doors when outdoor air quality is good to replace stale indoor air with fresh, clean air, particularly during cooler times of the day.
Regular Maintenance: Keep your ventilation systems operating effectively by regularly cleaning filters, clearing ducts, and maintaining fans. This ensures consistent airflow and optimal performance.

6. Choose Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

You should select eco-friendly cleaning products to improve indoor air quality, especially when using AC systems that can trap pollutants.

You can create natural cleaning solutions with everyday ingredients. An essential toolkit includes white vinegar, baking soda, borax, and citrus fruits, which work well for various cleaning tasks.

For added cleaning power and fragrance, consider using hydrogen peroxide, cornstarch, castile soap, and essential oils like tea tree oil. These natural alternatives help avoid harsh chemicals while maintaining a clean and healthy living environment.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Indoor Air Fresh & Healthy

Maintaining good indoor air quality while using your AC is essential for a healthier home. Regular AC maintenance, clean air filters, air purifiers, and proper ventilation all contribute to better air quality. By taking these steps, you can reduce allergens, control humidity, and breathe easier.

Call Anthem Air Conditioning and Plumbing at 760-895-2621 for professional AC maintenance service in Indio, CA.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does indoor air quality affect overall health and well-being?

Indoor air quality significantly impacts health, especially respiratory and heart health. Poor air quality can trigger asthma, allergies, and even heart disease.

Are there specific plants that can improve indoor air quality?

Air-purifying plants like snake plants and peace lilies naturally filter toxins and improve indoor air quality.

What are common indoor air pollutants to be aware of?

Common indoor air pollutants include dust, pet dander, and mold. Cleaning products, paints, varnishes, and solvents can also release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into indoor air, potentially harming your health.

How can I test my home’s indoor air quality?

You can start with DIY methods like air quality testing kits or smartphone apps. These tools help detect hidden pollutants that allow you to improve air quality and breathe easier.

Can household pets impact indoor air quality?

Household pets can impact indoor air quality. Their pet dander contributes to allergens in the air. You should ensure your air filtration systems are efficient so that you can live comfortably with your pets without compromising the air you breathe.