How to Test the Air Quality in Your Home & Why It Matters

Air quality plays a critical role in your overall health and comfort, especially in the place you spend the most time—your home. Yet, many homeowners underestimate how poor indoor air quality can lead to allergies, respiratory issues, and even long-term health problems.

This blog will guide you through how to test the air quality in your home and the actionable steps you can take to improve it. If you’re a homeowner in Central Florida, we’ll also discuss how AC supplies in Central Florida can make a significant difference in tackling air quality challenges.

Why is Indoor Air Quality Important?

Indoor air pollution can stem from various sources such as dust, pet dander, mold, chemicals from cleaning products, and even outdoor air that seeps into your home. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that indoor air can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air.

Poor indoor air quality can lead to:

• Breathing difficulties
• Irritated eyes, nose, and throat
• Worsening asthma or allergy symptoms
• Long-term health risks like heart disease or lung cancer

Testing your air quality is a great first step to knowing exactly what you’re dealing with, so you can take targeted measures to ensure cleaner, healthier air for your household.

How to Test the Air Quality in Your Home

Here are six essential steps to help you assess the air quality in your home.

1. Use an Air Quality Monitor

Investing in an air quality monitor is the easiest way to get a real-time assessment of the air you're breathing. These devices typically measure pollutants such as:

• Particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10)
• Carbon monoxide (CO)
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Humidity levels

Many models are compact, easy to use, and connect to apps for detailed reporting.

Recommended Products:

• IQAir AirVisual Pro: Offers accurate indoor and outdoor data.
• Awair Element: Provides feedback and actionable tips for improving air quality.

2. Inspect Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality. Over time, dust, allergens, and pollutants can build up in your air ducts and filters, reducing the effectiveness of your AC. Check your system for the following:

• Dirty air filters
• Leaky ducts
• Signs of mold or mildew
• Clogs in the system

If you're in Central Florida, Discount Air Supply offers high-quality AC supplies designed to keep your system running efficiently and help improve the air you breathe.

3. Perform a Mold Test

Mold growth is one of the most common causes of poor indoor air quality. You can purchase mold testing kits at hardware stores or online. These typically involve collecting a sample using a petri dish, which gets sent to a lab for analysis.

Keep an eye out for musty odors or visible mold spots, especially near vents, in basements, or around windows.

4. Check for Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can pose a serious health hazard. Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home to identify leaks. If you already have detectors, check the batteries and ensure they are functioning properly.

5. Measure Humidity Levels

Excessive humidity is a breeding ground for mold, dust mites, and other allergens. Aim to keep your home's humidity level between 30% and 50%. Use a hygrometer to measure moisture levels, and consider a dehumidifier if you're in areas like Florida, where high humidity is common.

6. Conduct a DIY Indoor Air Quality Test

You can also run a DIY air quality test by observing potential problem areas:

• Identify smoke or gas emissions from fireplaces or stoves.
• Look for excessive dust buildup, an indicator of weak filtration.
• Monitor symptoms like coughing or skin irritation when inside your home.

Combining these tests with professional assessments will give you a comprehensive view of your home's air quality.

Steps to Improve Indoor Air Quality

After identifying the issues, it’s time to make improvements:

Upgrade Your AC Filters

Switch to high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. These filters can trap 99.97% of airborne particles, helping to dramatically improve indoor air. Ensure you replace filters every 1 to 3 months, especially if you live in areas with high pollen counts, like Central Florida.

Regular HVAC Maintenance

Schedule regular cleanings and maintenance for your HVAC system. This ensures it’s not recirculating dirt, mold, or allergens. If you need trusted AC supplies in Central Florida, Discount Air Supply is a great resource to maintain the health of your system.

Add Air Purifiers

Investing in air purifiers can significantly improve air quality in high-use areas like bedrooms or living rooms. Look for purifiers with HEPA filters and activated carbon layers to tackle particles and odors.

Reduce Indoor Pollutants

• Use eco-friendly cleaning products to minimize airborne chemicals.
• Ban smoking indoors.
• Ventilate your home while cooking or using high-chemical products.

Control Humidity

Install a dehumidifier, especially during Florida summers, when humidity levels peak. This will reduce chances of mold growth and maintain healthier air circulation.

Why Central Florida Homeowners Need to Pay Extra Attention

Living in Central Florida comes with unique air quality challenges. With its year-round warm temperatures and high humidity, homes in this region are prone to mold, pollen infiltration, and even salty coastal air that can wear down HVAC systems. Regularly maintaining your air conditioning system, combined with using top-notch AC supplies like high-grade filters, will help you counteract these problems effectively.

Pro Tip

Partner with local service providers like Discount Air Supply, who offer top-tier AC supplies in Central Florida. They not only provide products but also expertise to ensure your HVAC system supports a cleaner, healthier living environment.

Breathe Easier Today

Air quality affects every aspect of our health and comfort. Testing and upgrading your home’s air through proper ventilation, clean air filters, and regular maintenance are crucial steps toward ensuring a healthier living space.

If you’re looking to take better control of your indoor air environment, start with your HVAC system. Contact Discount Air Supply for premium AC supplies in Central Florida and expert advice. Together, we can make the air you breathe better for both you and your family.