Do You Smoke? Here’s How to Use HVAC to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Optimize Your System to Fight Its Consequences

We’ll spare you the lecture; most of us know the health consequences of smoking tobacco, or even cannabis by now. Nevertheless, many folks still smoke. Here are some easy ways to mitigate the spread of the habit’s harmful chemicals throughout your indoor air. While you cannot eliminate all the health risks generated from secondhand smoke in your home, these tips will go a long way to improving air quality right away.

High-Efficiency Air Filters

Upgrade now to a high-efficiency air filter for your HVAC system. A HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter will significantly reduce airborne contaminants. These filters are specially designed to trap pollutants as small as 0.3 microns, which include  tobacco smoke particles. Replacing these filters every three months will ensure they remain an effective safeguard.

Activated Carbon Filters

Activated carbon filters are particularly effective at removing odors and gasses associated with tobacco smoke. These filters work by adsorbing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful irritants from the air. Combining the use of  activated carbon filters along with HEPA filters provide a comprehensive approach to improving your indoor air quality.

Regular HVAC Maintenance

Sure, routine maintenance of your HVAC system is essential for optimal performance. But did you know that this maintenance will also reduce dust and smoke residue from your equipment? Professional HVAC servicing should be done at least once a year to ensure your system runs efficiently and effectively filters your indoor air.

Air Purifiers

Stand-alone air purifiers can enhance your HVAC system by providing additional filtration in areas where family members are smoking. Look for purifiers equipped with both HEPA and activated carbon filters. Placing these units in high-use living areas will help capture pollutants before they circulate throughout your home.

 Ventilation

Good ventilation will disperse and dilute indoor pollutants. Have a strategy for your HVAC system that includes ventilation to bring in fresh outdoor air while expelling indoor air. Putting in exhaust fans in areas where people are smoking can also help remove harmful chemicals before they circulate.

 Smoking Restrictions

Think about limiting smoking to one outside area, or a certain room of the house that has good ventilation, along with an air purifier.

Remember, a little planning can make a huge difference when it comes to improving everyone’s health and safety in a house with secondhand smoke. Have questions on possible upgrades for air purification? Don’t hesitate to contact us today.

Air-Tro is the family-owned HVAC company trusted by San Gabriel Valley homeowners for all their heating and air conditioning needs. Call us today at (626)357-3535.