Dust is one of the most common causes of poor indoor air quality. Not only can it be unpleasant to look at and difficult to clean, but dust can also create respiratory issues for those living in the home. It’s important to understand why dust accumulates in a home and how you can combat it. Here are some common causes of an excessively dusty house as well as some good housekeeping tips for reducing dust levels.
Common Causes of a Dusty House
There are many potential sources that contribute to a dusty house. Most often, outdoor sources such as pollen and dirt carried inside by pets or people are responsible for the majority of household dust accumulation. Other potential sources include construction work, smoke from burning wood or cigarettes, and materials used in furniture construction such as foam cushions and fabrics made from synthetic fibers. Additionally, pet dander and dead skin cells are among the most common types of household dust particles.
Housekeeping Tips for Reducing Dust Levels
Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to keep your home free from excess dust accumulation around your home.
- Vacuum frequently with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner to reduce allergens like pet dander and other airborne particles that could trigger allergies or asthma symptoms.
- Clean surfaces regularly with a damp cloth—dust clings more easily to dry surfaces.
- Consider replacing items such as carpets or curtains that may trap dust particles more easily than other materials.
- The best way to reduce dust mite populations in your home is to keep the humidity level low. Dust mites thrive in humid environments, so by keeping your home’s humidity level below 50%, you can significantly reduce their numbers.
- If you have pets, it’s important to regularly groom them and vacuum up any pet hair that they shed. Pet hair can contribute to more dust in your home, so by keeping them clean and free of shedding, you can help to reduce overall dust levels.
- Avoid using fabric softeners when washing your bedding and clothes. Fabric softeners coat fabrics with chemicals that can attract and hold onto dust particles, so it’s best to avoid them if you’re trying to reduce dust levels in your home.
- Keep clutter to a minimum. Clutter provides places for dust to hide and accumulate, so by decluttering your living spaces, you can help reduce the overall amount of dust in your home.
How Can Your HVAC System Help You Combat Dust?
Your HVAC system will have a significant impact on how much dust accumulates in your home over time. Regular maintenance appointments for your furnace or air conditioner are essential for keeping your system running efficiently and avoiding costly repairs or replacements down the road. In addition to annual maintenance visits for your heating and cooling systems, this includes using high-efficiency air filters and changing the filters in your HVAC unit regularly. Furthermore, having your ducts professionally cleaned by certified technicians from Novak Heating & Cooling will help improve indoor air quality by removing built-up debris that could otherwise become airborne over time if left untreated.
Talk to Novak to Learn More Ways To Make Your House Less Dusty
Understanding why dust accumulates and taking proactive steps to reduce its presence is essential for maintaining healthy indoor air quality levels throughout your home. Professional duct cleaning and maintaining your HVAC system with regular air filter changes can go a long way in the battle against excess dust in your home. If you live near Cedar Rapids area, call Novak Heating & Cooling today for all your professional duct cleaning and HVAC maintenance needs!