Proper air circulation provides a number of benefits to the indoor environment of your home. Unfortunately, adequate circulation of air often doesn’t happen by itself, particularly during winter, when the house is more closed up. Add to that the fact that today’s homes tend to be very tightly air-sealed for maximum efficiency, and the end result may be a stagnant indoor environment where air quality is diminished. Among the consequences of inadequate indoor circulation are:
- Accumulation of odors, dust, and other airborne pollutants.
- Excessively high indoor humidity.
- Inconsistent heating and cooling temperature control resulting in cold spots and hot spots.
- Potential spread of mildew and mold contamination.
Opening windows and doors often isn’t practical in winter weather. However, there are other steps you can take in any season to augment indoor air circulation and improve the household environment.
- Change the system air filter. All the air inside your home circulates through your HVAC air filter multiple times per day. However, if the filter is dirty or clogged, airflow decreases and indoor temperature control, as well as air quality, are diminished. During winter, replace the system air filter every other month (or more frequently as needed). In summer, replace the filter every month.
- Run ceiling fans. Quiet and energy efficient, ceiling fans keep air moving continuously in individual rooms. Operating costs are low and the fan’s rotation can be reversed so the direction of circulating air accommodates both winter and summer comfort requirements.
- Schedule a duct inspection. Airflow loss from leaky ductwork can reduce household air circulation by at least 25%. A qualified HVAC contractor can perform an inspection, including testing for leakage to identify ductwork issues, then offer effective options to restore proper airflow and circulation.
- Move stale indoor air outdoors. Kitchens and bathrooms often become a source of accumulated humidity and odors. Install dedicated exhaust fans in these rooms to move humid, stagnant air directly to the outdoors through dedicated exhaust ducts.
For more advice, as well as professional service to help maximize indoor air circulation, contact Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area