When we think of air pollution, most of us imagine busy highways, factories, or smoggy cityscapes. But did you know the air inside your home can be just as polluted—sometimes even worse? According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. That’s a pretty big deal, especially when you consider how much time we spend indoors. If you’re a homeowner in Georgia, specifically looking to enhance indoor air quality in Athens, GA, this guide is for you.
At Blount Heating and Cooling, we believe clean air is just as important as a comfortable temperature. That’s why we’re breaking down the most effective and accessible ways to improve the air you breathe at home.
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters
Before diving into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Poor indoor air quality can lead to:
- Allergies and respiratory issues: Dust, mold spores, and pet dander can aggravate asthma and cause sneezing, coughing, or congestion.
- Fatigue and headaches: Pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can lead to symptoms that mimic a cold or flu.
- Long-term health effects: Prolonged exposure to certain air pollutants can contribute to serious health issues, including heart disease and cancer.
Your home should be your safe space—let’s make sure the air inside reflects that.
1. Regularly Change Your HVAC Filters
Your HVAC system works hard year-round to keep your home comfortable, but its air filter plays a critical role in trapping dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. Over time, that filter gets clogged and can’t do its job as well.
Best Practice:
- Check your filter every month.
- Replace it every 1–3 months depending on usage and filter type.
- Consider upgrading to HEPA filters or filters with a higher MERV rating for better air filtration.
At Blount Heating and Cooling, we can recommend the best filters for your system and lifestyle.
2. Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance
Routine HVAC maintenance isn’t just about keeping your system efficient—it’s also about protecting your air. A neglected system can circulate dust, mold, and other particles throughout your home.
Benefits of HVAC Tune-Ups for Air Quality:
- Clean coils and components = cleaner air.
- Improved system efficiency = better air flow.
- Early detection of mold or other contaminants in your ductwork.
If you live in the Athens area and haven’t had your system looked at in a while, give Blount Heating and Cooling a call. We specialize in improving indoor air quality in Athens, GA through expert HVAC service.
3. Use Air Purifiers (Especially in High-Traffic Areas)
Air purifiers can be a great addition to your indoor air quality arsenal, especially in bedrooms, living rooms, or other areas where your family spends a lot of time.
Look for air purifiers with:
- True HEPA filters (removes 99.97% of particles ≥ 0.3 microns)
- Activated carbon filters (for odors and VOCs)
- UV lights (for killing bacteria and viruses)
Not sure which air purifier is best for your home size and needs? We can help with that, too.
4. Clean Your Air Ducts
If your ductwork is dirty, your air is too. Over time, dust, mold spores, and even rodent droppings can accumulate in your ducts and get blown into your living space every time your HVAC kicks on.
Signs Your Ducts Might Need Cleaning:
- Visible dust or debris near vents
- Unexplained respiratory symptoms
- Musty smells when the HVAC runs
- You’ve recently renovated your home
Professional duct cleaning can make a noticeable difference in both your air quality and HVAC efficiency.
5. Control Humidity Levels
Too much humidity encourages mold and dust mites, while too little humidity can dry out your sinuses and skin. Keeping the humidity level in your home between 30–50% is ideal for both comfort and air quality.
How to Maintain Healthy Humidity:
- Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements or bathrooms
- Install a whole-home humidifier/dehumidifier system
- Make sure your HVAC system is properly sized and ventilated
In Athens, GA, our humid summers can be a challenge. That’s why Blount Heating and Cooling offers humidity control solutions that integrate directly with your HVAC system.
6. Improve Ventilation
Fresh air is essential to maintaining good indoor air quality. Unfortunately, many newer homes are sealed tightly for energy efficiency, which can trap pollutants inside.
Ways to Improve Home Ventilation:
- Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms
- Crack open windows when weather allows
- Install an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) to exchange stale indoor air with filtered outdoor air
An ERV is a smart solution, especially during pollen season in Georgia when you may not want to open your windows.
7. Keep Floors and Surfaces Clean
Dust and allergens don’t just float in the air—they settle on your furniture, carpets, and floors. Keeping your home clean helps reduce the total load of particles that could become airborne again.
Tips for Cleaner Surfaces:
- Vacuum with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner
- Mop regularly (without harsh chemicals)
- Use doormats to reduce dirt tracked inside
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water
Pro tip: avoid scented cleaning products and sprays that release VOCs.
8. Avoid Indoor Pollutants
Sometimes we unintentionally introduce pollutants into our homes through the products we use or activities we do.
Common Indoor Air Offenders Include:
- Aerosol sprays and air fresheners
- Nonstick cookware that overheats
- Candles made with synthetic fragrance
- Paints, glues, and solvents
Whenever possible, choose low-VOC or no-VOC products and opt for essential oil diffusers instead of synthetic air fresheners.
9. Add Some Air-Purifying Houseplants
While plants alone won’t completely purify your air, they do help remove some pollutants and add oxygen to your space. Plus, they just make your home feel fresher and more inviting.
Top Air-Cleansing Plants Include:
- Snake Plant
- Spider Plant
- Peace Lily
- Bamboo Palm
- Aloe Vera
Just remember: some houseplants can be toxic to pets, so always double-check before buying.
10. Consider a Whole-Home Air Cleaner
If you’re serious about improving indoor air quality in Athens, GA, a whole-home air purification system is one of the most comprehensive options available. These systems are installed directly into your HVAC unit and treat the air as it moves throughout your home.
Benefits of Whole-Home Systems:
- Continuous filtration for every room
- More powerful than portable units
- Low maintenance once installed
Blount Heating and Cooling offers high-quality air purification systems that remove particulates, odors, bacteria, and more—perfect for families with asthma, allergies, or pets.
Ready to Breathe Easier? We Can Help
Your indoor air quality affects everything—from your comfort to your health. If you’ve been sneezing more than usual, noticing musty odors, or just want peace of mind about the air in your home, it’s time to take action.
At Blount Heating and Cooling, we’re proud to be a trusted provider of HVAC solutions and indoor air quality services right here in Athens, GA. Whether you need duct cleaning, system upgrades, or a whole-home air purifier, we’ve got the expertise to help your family breathe easier.
Get in touch today to schedule a consultation or routine maintenance appointment.