An HVAC system makes your home more comfortable, but it can also cause health and safety concerns. Fortunately, you can prevent these hazards with the right heating and air conditioning equipment. The top safety issues for your Savannah, Georgia, home are mold, poor indoor air quality, and fire.
Mold
Mold can cause flu-like symptoms and aggravate allergies and asthma. It can grow almost anywhere; on insulation, furniture, walls, carpeting, and more. Mold needs moisture, so lowering the humidity in your home can prevent it. You should use exhaust fans to get rid of moisture when you cook or shower. For an even lower humidity that will make warm days feel cooler and more comfortable, you can use a dehumidifier. Whole-home models or smaller portable models are available.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
When dust, dirt, pet dander, pollen, and other indoor air pollutants get into your home, poor indoor air quality causes unexplained health problems and high utility bills. You may also notice bad smells, a dirty air filter, or dirty ductwork. Many household cleaners, air fresheners, and paints contain volatile organic compounds or VOCs that can cause nausea, drowsiness, headaches, trouble breathing, and even cancer. Change your air filter once per month and remove an air register to make sure your ductwork is clean every few months.
Fire
Your HVAC system could become a fire hazard if you don’t have it maintained regularly and take proper safety precautions. Have your system inspected by a professional twice per year to prevent dangerous, expensive breakdowns. You should always turn off the power before you take care of maintenance tasks or even install small upgrades. Smoke detectors are essential safety features that can help you stop a fire before it spreads. You should also use carbon monoxide detectors if you have gas or wood stoves, furnaces, or fireplaces.
At Byrd Heating and Air Conditioning we can help you install, maintain, and repair a variety of equipment to keep your heating and air conditioning system safe. If you have questions, call us anytime at Shutterstock
