If you’re wondering how to improve indoor air quality, start with a few quick habits, then add smart ventilation, better filters, and simple monitoring. You’ll breathe easier, your home will smell fresher, and allergies may calm down.
Quick Wins You Can Do Today (10 Minutes Each)
- Run the range hood whenever you cook (use the back burners for better capture).
- Turn on bath fans during and 20 minutes after showers.
- Swap your HVAC filter for a fresh MERV-11–13 (if your system supports it).
- Start a HEPA purifier in the room you use most.
- Shoes off, mats down at every entry.
- Check humidity: Aim for 40–50% RH (under 60% to prevent mold).
- Store chemicals/paints in the garage or a ventilated area.
The Big 4: The Simple System That Works
1) Cut Pollution at the Source
- Fix leaks fast; dry damp spots within 24–48 hours.
- Choose low- or zero-VOC paints, adhesives, and cleaners.
- Brush pets outdoors and vacuum 2–3×/week with a HEPA vacuum.
- Don’t smoke indoors; go easy on candles/incense.
2) Ventilate the Right Way
- Use ducted kitchen hoods and bathroom fans; keep windows open when outdoor air is clean.
- During bad outdoor air (smoke/smog), close windows and rely on filtration (below).
3) Filter What’s Left
- HVAC filter: Upgrade toward MERV-13 if your blower can handle it (ask an HVAC pro if unsure).
- Room purifiers: Look for True HEPA and size it to the room (CADR ≈ two-thirds of the room’s square footage).
4) Control Humidity
- Keep 40–50% RH year-round; use dehumidifiers in damp areas.
- If you use a humidifier in winter, clean it weekly to avoid microbes.
Room-by-Room Indoor Air Quality Guide
Kitchen
- Ducted range hood on medium-high while cooking; keep it running 10 minutes after.
- Prefer induction or a portable induction plate if you have gas.
Bathrooms & Laundry
- Fan on during/after showers; squeegee walls; keep towels dry.
- Make sure your dryer vents outdoors.
Bedrooms
- HEPA purifier + allergen covers for pillows/mattress.
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water. Keep pets out if allergies are strong.
Living Areas
- Entry mats + no shoes; low-VOC furniture and cleaners.
- HEPA vacuuming and damp dusting (dry dusting just redistributes particles).
Basement/Garage
- Run a dehumidifier if RH is high; seal gaps; never idle cars in an attached garage.
- Consider a radon test, especially with basements.
Seasonal Playbook: Wildfire or Smoky Days
- Stock spare MERV-13 filters and purifier pre-filters.
- Keep windows closed; set HVAC to recirculate; run HEPA purifiers on a higher setting.
- After smoke clears, wipe surfaces with a damp cloth and vacuum with HEPA.
What to Monitor (and What “Good” Looks Like)
- PM2.5: Aim for <12 µg/m³ (daily average).
- Humidity: 40–50% is ideal; never let it sit above 60%.
- CO: Install detectors on every level; test monthly.
- Radon: Run a long-term test if you have a basement or are in a high-risk area.
A simple monitor that shows PM2.5 and RH covers most daily decisions.
Simple 90-Day Plan
Days 1–7
- Replace HVAC filter; buy a basic PM2.5 + humidity monitor.
- Commit to using the range hood and bath fans every time.
Days 8–30
- Add HEPA purifiers to bedrooms/living room; switch to low-VOC cleaners.
- Fix minor leaks; set up a weekly hot-wash bedding routine.
Days 31–60
- Have HVAC checked for MERV-13 compatibility; seal ducts if leaky.
- If your home is airtight or windows stay closed, ask about a balanced ERV/HRV.
Days 61–90
- Add a dehumidifier where needed; aim for 40–50% RH.
- Consider a portable induction cooktop if you have gas.
- Make “shoes off, solvents out” a house rule.
Budget Guide (Good, Better, Best)
- Under $200: Fresh HVAC filter, door mats/shoe rack, squeegee + bathroom timer, basic air monitor.
- $200–$500: One quality HEPA purifier, allergen bedding covers, dehumidifier for a damp room, portable induction plate.
- $500–$2,000: Multiple HEPA units, HVAC service + duct sealing, system-wide move toward MERV-13, radon testing/mitigation if needed.
- $2,000+: High-capture ducted range hood, ERV/HRV for balanced ventilation, moisture/drainage fixes, professional mold remediation (when verified).
FAQs
What’s the fastest way to improve indoor air quality?
Use your range hood while cooking, run bath fans after showers, start a HEPA purifier, swap in a MERV-11–13 HVAC filter, and keep humidity at 40–50%.
How often should I change my HVAC filter?
Every 60–90 days for most homes, or monthly during heavy use, smoke season, or with pets/allergies.
What’s best for wildfire smoke?
MERV-13 in your HVAC (if supported) + a True HEPA purifier in the rooms you use most.
Can I improve air quality without buying lots of devices?
Yes. Source control + ventilation: use exhaust fans, open windows when outside air is clean, reduce VOC products, and manage humidity.
When should I call a pro?
If you see/smell mold, have persistent moisture, or symptoms don’t improve after these steps, book an indoor air quality inspection. For upgrades like ducted hoods, ERVs, or drainage fixes, hire a licensed general contractor or HVAC pro.
