Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a bigger role in your health than many people realize—especially during flu season. According to the EPA, most Americans spend close to 90% of their time indoors. That means the air inside your home has a major impact on your comfort, your breathing, and your overall well‑being. In many cases, indoor air can contain two to five times more pollutants than the air outside, which becomes even more concerning when seasonal illnesses start spreading.

Common Sources of Indoor Air Pollutants

Indoor air pollutants come from a variety of everyday sources. Biological contaminants—like mold spores, viruses, bacteria, pollen, pet dander, and dust mites—are some of the most common. Household items and materials can release chemical pollutants as well, including carbon monoxide, radon, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaners, paints, furniture, and building materials.

Normal household activities can also worsen IAQ. Cooking, using heating systems, or even walking across a room can stir up particles. Without proper ventilation or filtration, these contaminants remain trapped and continue circulating through your HVAC system.

The Health Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality

Breathing polluted indoor air can cause irritation, headaches, fatigue, or dizziness. Over time, long‑term exposure may contribute to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, or other chronic health problems.

During the colder months—when people spend more time indoors—poor IAQ becomes an even bigger threat. Pollutants and fine particles can worsen flu symptoms or make it easier for viruses to spread throughout your home. As a trusted HVAC contractor in Bryan, OH, we see this issue often when homes lack proper filtration or ventilation.

The Value of Indoor Air Quality Testing

Professional air quality testing can give homeowners a clearer understanding of what’s circulating through their indoor air. These tests check for mold, dust mites, VOCs, carbon monoxide, and other common irritants. With this information, you can take targeted steps to improve IAQ and support a healthier home environment.

Why Clean HVAC Filters Matter

Your heating and cooling system relies on clean air filters to trap pollutants before they recirculate. Dirty or clogged filters reduce efficiency, force your HVAC system to work harder, and allow contaminants to pass through your ductwork.

Most experts—including the team here at Ascend Mechanical—recommend checking or replacing filters every one to three months. Homes with pets, allergies, or high usage may need more frequent filter changes.

The Importance of Duct Cleaning and Inspection

Over time, dust, allergens, pet hair, and even mold can build up in your ductwork. When the system runs, those particles get pushed into your living spaces. Scheduling professional duct cleaning in Bryan, OH can help eliminate these contaminants and improve airflow.

Routine duct inspections also help ensure your HVAC system isn’t contributing to poor IAQ or spreading pollutants from room to room.

Managing Indoor Humidity

Humidity plays a major role in overall indoor comfort and health. The ideal indoor humidity range is 30–50%. When humidity is too high, mold growth and dust mites can thrive. When humidity is too low, your air becomes dry, which can irritate your throat and nasal passages and make it easier for viruses to spread.

Homes in Northwest Ohio and the surrounding Tri‑State region can benefit from whole‑house humidifiers or dehumidifiers to maintain optimal moisture levels year‑round.

The Role of Air Purifiers

High‑efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifiers can help capture microscopic particles, bacteria, and allergens. While air purifiers shouldn’t replace routine HVAC maintenance, filtration upgrades, or good ventilation practices, they can be a helpful tool in improving indoor air quality—especially during flu season.

Ventilation: Essential for Healthy Indoor Air

Proper ventilation is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve IAQ. Fresh outdoor air helps dilute pollutants inside your home. During flu season, good ventilation supports healthier airflow and reduces the spread of viruses that linger in stagnant air.

Improving ventilation might include adjusting HVAC settings, using exhaust fans, or opening windows when outdoor conditions allow. As a local HVAC company serving Bryan, OH and surrounding communities, we often recommend integrating mechanical ventilation solutions for year‑round results.

Daily Habits for Cleaner Indoor Air

• Avoid smoking indoors to reduce harmful airborne chemicals.
• Use exhaust fans while cooking to remove heat, steam, and cooking byproducts.
• Choose low‑VOC or natural cleaning products when possible.
• Vacuum and dust regularly using HEPA‑filtered equipment.

Cleaner Indoor Air Means Better Health

Flu season highlights just how important indoor air quality truly is. By improving ventilation, managing humidity, replacing filters, and investing in professional IAQ testing, homeowners across Bryan, OH can create a healthier, safer, and more comfortable environment for their families.

If you’d like help improving your indoor air quality—or if you're looking for HVAC services, duct cleaning, air purifier installation, or a maintenance agreement in Bryan, OH—Ascend Mechanical is here for you. Our licensed technicians are available 24/7 for heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical service throughout Northwest Ohio, Northeast Indiana, and Southern Michigan.

Need help right away? Contact us anytime at (419) 633‑4567 or visit ascendmechanical.com.

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