#1 Healthy Home Tip For Sheltering In Place

It is important that the indoor air you are breathing is as healthy as possible while you shelter in place. The EPA tells us that pollutants inside our homes are often 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor levels. In some cases these levels can exceed 100 times the amount. We are spending more time than ever inside our homes and If you live in a home built after 1940 your gas forced air system, if not properly maintained, can aggravate indoor air quality issues and cause health concerns.

The first thing to do is assess the status of your humidifier, air filtration and ductwork systems.

In order to do a proper assessment you must know how to safely turn off your furnace. If you do not know how, or do not want to do this, don't worry. We will provide you with tips at the end of this article to assess the health of these items.

If you have turned off the furnace, locate your humidifier which will be on the ductwork next to your furnace. Humidifiers usually have have an Aprilaire or Honeywell label. Once found, open up the housing. If there is any sign of dirt or organic growth inside the unit it is best to replace the water pad (the thing that looks like a filter) and the discharge hose (which is located under the humidifier) and then completely clean the interior of the humidifier. When replacing the hose be sure to attach it with a quality hose clamp as this is one of the top causes of accidental home flooding. Most manufacturers recommend changing the water pad every 12 months but if you found any type of dirt or organic growth inside the unit it is recommended that you check it much more frequently and if it persists, to determine the cause.


Next check your air filtration and ductwork.
Typically you will find your air filter at the base of the furnace. Pull out the filter and examine it. It is dirty, replace it. Depending upon your type and size of filter it will need to be changed every 3,6 or 12 months. Before putting it back, look inside your ductwork. If there are signs of dust or debris, no matter how small, it may be time to get your ductwork cleaned.

"Over the years a fine dust of dead skin, hair, pet dander, construction debris, etc. can collect on air duct surfaces and create a mat-like coating where bacteria, mold, dust mites and allergens can thrive depending upon the moisture conditions and the time of year. "

If you don't feel comfortable turning off your furnace you can still assess whether your humidifiers, air filtration and ductwork systems are clean and functioning effectively.

1. To check your humidifier examine the discharge hose which is located under the humidifier. Over 95% of them are clear plastic. If yours looks is not clear and looks dirty it suggests that the entire unit may need to be cleaned.
2. To check your filter locate any stickers on the furnace detailing the service dates and types of services performed. See if it indicates the last time the filter was changed. A good rule of thumb is to change 1-2" filters every three months, 4" filters every six months and 5" filters every 12 months.
3. To check your ductwork get a flashlight and find a heat register in one of your rooms that is easily accessible. Heat registers are vent covers that cover the hole in the wall or floor where the duct enters the room. Shine your light into the ductwork and see if it is dirty or dusty. If so, it might be indicating that it's time for the ductwork to be cleaned.

Keeping your air filtration, humidification and ductwork system clean and free of organic growth is the first thing you should do to improve the quality of your indoor air and help you and your family stay healthy. If you need further help determining which products or services you should be using contact your favorite family-owned hardware store. Not only will they be happy to to provide you with your specific type of air filter, water pad, hose and clamp but they will knowledgeably answer any questions you might have regarding any of the maintenance items in your home These stores have been been deemed essential during the Coronavirus and offer both curb side pick up and home delivery for your convenience.


Every home is unique and and each has it's own complexities. If you would like to know the best way to maintain your particular home, which would include managing home health items like humidifiers, air filtration and ductwork you may want to consider Get Dwell's Trustable Home Assessment click here. You’ll not only receive a detailed report of our findings, we’ll discuss and prioritize any recommended repairs or maintenance needs your home may have. It’s the easiest, most reliable and consistent way to keep your home in tip-top condition.


To schedule a virtual appointment with one of our Project Managers to discuss this or any other home issue you may have click here.

If you would like to schedule services or an estimate click here. Be aware that Get Dwell is taking all necessary precautions to keep our employees, clients and community safe during this time.