Summer in Colorado means longer days, lots of sunshine, warm temps, and plenty of fun ways to spend time outside. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’re familiar with Colorado’s blue skies and clean air— a combo that makes hiking, fishing, camping and other outdoor activities so enjoyable. But when our skies are smoky or hazy, we recognize it as an indicator of poor air quality and give second thought to our outdoor plans.
What we don’t always consider, however, is the impact poor outdoor air quality can have on the air quality in our homes, which can easily become a trap for pollutants and allergens. That’s why now is the perfect time to take a closer look at your indoor air quality (IAQ) and the HVAC solutions that can make your home healthier and more comfortable all summer long.
What’s Polluting Your Indoor Air?
Several common summer conditions can worsen IAQ:
- Wildfire smoke: Seasonal wildfires are becoming more common, and their smoke can seep into homes, carrying fine particles and harmful gases.
- Pollen & dust: Open windows and outdoor activities mean allergens like pollen and dust are more likely to find their way inside.
- Humidity levels: While high humidity levels create ideal conditions for mold and dust mites, which can trigger allergies or asthma, Colorado’s dry air comes with its own set of challenges. When the air inside your home is too dry, it can exacerbate respiratory issues by drying out your nose, throat and lungs, making you more susceptible to the effects of airborne irritants. Dry air can also make it easier for viruses to spread.
- Poor ventilation: Sealing up your home to keep the cool air in can also trap pollutants inside.
How to improve your IAQ
Don’t worry, improving your IAQ doesn’t mean overhauling your whole HVAC system, as small upgrades and professional guidance can make a big difference – here are some things you can do to ensure your IAQ is at its best:
Choose the right air filter.
Smoke, dust, and pollen don’t stand a chance against the right air filter. But not all filters are created equal—some are too restrictive and can even damage your HVAC system. Sensible offers a range of high-efficiency air filters compatible with many systems— HVAC experts will help you find and install the best air filter for your needs.
Install an iWave air purifier.
For next-level air cleaning, consider the iWave Air Purifier, which fits directly into your ductwork to neutralize bacteria, viruses, and smoke-related gasses. It’s self-cleaning, low-maintenance, and a great way to keep your air sanitized year-round—especially during wildfire season.
Balance humidity with a Sensible humidifier
Dry, smoky summer air can irritate respiratory systems and worsen allergy symptoms. Sensible offers steam, fan-powered, and bypass humidifiers to reintroduce healthy moisture into your home. We’ll help you select the right one for your needs and ensure it’s installed for optimal performance.
Keep up with HVAC maintenance
Regular maintenance keeps your system running efficiently and ensures it’s not recirculating dust, mold, or allergens. It also gives you the opportunity to upgrade filters and IAQ products before air quality becomes a serious concern.
Sensible is your trusted IAQ expert. Whether you need help selecting the right filter, installing an iWave purifier, or balancing your home’s humidity, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call today and breathe easier all summer long.
About Sensible Heating & Cooling
For us, Sensibility is a way of life. Our form is function, and we want to equip you with the right information, so you feel empowered to make the right decisions for your home. If you want to work with a premier heating and cooling company that you can trust, you want Sensible.
To learn more about our services and to take our virtual estimate survey, contact us today.
We have integrity. We build trust. We give you comfort.
