The Best Time to Schedule IAQ Services

Most people don’t know the best time to schedule indoor air quality (IAQ) services. That’s partly because IAQ testing isn’t recommended as regularly as  HVAC maintenance. However, IAQ services can make a big difference by addressing the causes of allergies and respiratory issues. They can detect pet dander, mold, chemicals, odor sources, or radon gas. They also include installing air purification and filtration systems (more on these later).

But the question we’ll answer now is, “When should you schedule an IAQ service?”

While there are no standards on indoor air quality testing and services, here are a few answers we think can help guide you:

If Your Allergies Are Getting Worse

Consider hiring an IAQ service if you’re constantly sneezing, coughing, or wheezing at home, the symptoms are getting worse, and they abate when you leave. Pets are often the source of allergies, as can be other animals you didn’t know about. Pet dander is an allergy trigger and can host allergy- and disease-causing bacteria. An IAQ test can determine if allergens are circulating and what their source may be.

During Building Construction or a Major Renovation

Any construction work in your home should be accompanied by indoor air quality testing. At the very least, it can give you peace of mind, especially if your home predates modern building codes. Some hazards include lead paint and asbestos. During a project, make sure construction areas are blocked off from living and working spaces and perform painting, carpet installation, floor re-surfacing, and other minor renovations when no one is home or during off-business hours.

When You Move Into a New House

Moving is a good time to schedule IAQ services. A new home can have many IAQ issues that you wouldn’t otherwise know about. Indoor air quality testing should be performed as part of a pre-purchase inspection. Therefore, you’ll know about and can take action to remedy issues like mold and other indoor allergens before moving in.

You Can’t Track Down the Source of a Strange Odor

Numerous types of odors can emerge in a home. A persistent, unusual odor can have a source that can be harmful if left untreated. For example, musty odors often point to mold (however, not all IAQ concerns can be smelled; some, including carbon monoxide, radon gas, and some molds, are odorless). However thorough testing can identify odor-producing organic materials, volatile organic compounds, chemicals, and issues with your HVAC system.

There Are Signs of an Air Quality Problem

Even if an IAQ problem isn’t evident, periodically walk through your home or building to identify potential issues using your senses. A lack of cleanliness may be a sign it’s time to hire an IAQ professional. Other reasons it may be time to schedule service include:

• Carpeting is unclean, damp, or affected by persistent moisture or flooding.
• Chemical products are being stored near ventilation equipment.
• Air intakes and exhaust vents are too close together, or intakes are near sources of waste or vehicle exhaust.
• Land around the building slopes toward it, causing water to pool near the foundation.
• Walls, ceilings, or vents are discolored or have unusual spots or stains around them.

It’s Time to Make IAQ Improvements

There are many types of IAQ testing. Usually, performing all of them at once isn’t necessary or practical. A professional can evaluate your home to determine what IAQ services you need. They can recommend certain tests and the types of solutions to consider. Some of these include:

• Whole-House Filtration Systems: These use a series of filters through which air is pulled to catch a wide range of pollutants and very small airborne particles. Tri-County Air installs high MERV-rated filters within air handlers to capture particles as small as 1 micron. We also install in-duct HEPA filters.
• Humidifiers/Dehumidifiers: High humidity, or a lack thereof, can be an IAQ problem. Depending on your situation, a humidifier or dehumidifier can maintain recommended indoor humidity levels (30% to 50%) so the environment becomes unsuited for some pollutants.
• UV Light Air Purifiers: A contractor can install UV light technology that damages bacteria, viruses, mold spores, and other organic materials on a molecular level. It can reduce odors, clean the air, and purify surfaces throughout your home.

Schedule IAQ Services With Tri County Air

Our team specializes in the latest high-efficiency air filtration and purification products. If you suspect a problem or have never installed such a system, Tri County Air can evaluate your needs, make recommendations, and provide long-term solutions. Call (941) 485-2222 to schedule IAQ services in your Charlotte, Manatee, or Sarasota County home.