Improving Indoor Air Quality in Your Tulsa Home

Most people assume outdoor air is more polluted than the air inside their homes. The EPA says otherwise. Indoor air is often 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air.

Common indoor air pollutants include:

• Dust mites and pet dander
• Mold spores
• Pollen tracked in from outside
• Volatile organic compounds from paint, flooring, and cleaning products
• Carbon monoxide from combustion appliances

Your HVAC filter is your first line of defense. A standard 1-inch fiberglass filter catches large particles but misses the fine particulates that affect air quality most. Upgrading to a MERV 11 or higher filter captures mold spores, pet dander, and fine dust.

Change your filter every 30 days in summer and every 60 days in winter.

Portable air purifiers work for single rooms. For whole-home protection, an in-duct air purification system treats every cubic foot of air that passes through your HVAC system. Options include:

• Media filters with high particle capture rates
• Electronic air cleaners using an electrical charge
• UV germicidal lights that kill mold and bacteria on your evaporator coil

Your ductwork accumulates years of dust, debris, and sometimes mold. Every time your system runs, that material circulates through your living space. Professional duct cleaning removes the buildup and improves both air quality and system efficiency.

Mold thrives above 60% relative humidity. A whole-home dehumidifier maintains optimal indoor humidity levels year-round.

A dirty evaporator coil is a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Annual maintenance that includes coil cleaning is one of the most effective steps you can take for indoor air quality.

Call (918) 408-8577 for an indoor air quality assessment.