Indoor Air Quality Services in Topeka

Trustworthy indoor air quality services in the Topeka area.

When most people think of ‘air quality,’ they probably think about the pictures of large cities, with plenty of cars, and a cloud of smog hanging over it. Oppositely, they may think of fresh, clean mountain air that is almost completely untouched by the human population. 

However, when we talk about your indoor air quality, we are talking about air much closer to you--literally the air you breathe inside your home. Oftentimes, people don’t think of the air in their home as being poor- or good-quality, it’s just air, you breathe it, and that’s it. You actually do have a choice about it, though. You can choose to contact Pat Plumbing, Heating, Air and Electric to analyze the air and moisture in your home in order to find out if there is room for improvement or if the air is as great as what you’d find in the mountains.

Need indoor air quality solutions in Topeka? Call Pat Plumbing, Heating, Air and Electric at (785) 783-5780 or send us a message online today.

Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality can manifest in various signs, affecting both physical health and the environment within a building. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

1. Odors: Unpleasant or strong odors can indicate the presence of pollutants in the air, such as mold, chemicals, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These odors may be musty, chemical-like, or resemble rotten eggs.
2. Visible Mold or Mildew: Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments and can be visible on walls, ceilings, or around windows. Their presence indicates excess moisture and poor ventilation, contributing to poor indoor air quality.
3. Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and throat irritation can indicate exposure to allergens like dust mites, pet dander, pollen, or mold spores in the air.
4. Respiratory Issues: Poor indoor air quality can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis, leading to increased coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
5. Fatigue and Headaches: Breathing in polluted indoor air may cause symptoms like fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. These can result from exposure to carbon monoxide, VOCs, or other air pollutants.
6. Excessive Dust: Excessive dust accumulation on surfaces, furniture, or HVAC vents suggests inadequate air filtration and circulation, allowing allergens and other pollutants to circulate freely.

Monitoring and addressing these signs promptly can help improve indoor air quality and create a healthier indoor environment.

Benefits of Installing a High-Efficiency Air Cleaner

Currently using a standard 1" air filter in your heating and cooling system? Upgrading to a high-efficiency media air cleaner is one of the best decisions you can make for quality of your home's air! These air cleaners connect directly to your HVAC system and can remove up to 40x the amount of dust, dander, mold, and contaminants compared to a traditional air filter.

High-efficiency air cleaners work with all types of heating and air conditioning systems, including electric and gas furnaces, heat pumps, and central air conditioning units. These air cleaners keep your HVAC systems working as efficiently as possible, reducing your monthly utility bills! Plus, these handy devices are quiet and require very little maintenance. More benefits of installing a high-efficiency air cleaner include:

• Provides relief from allergies
• Protects your heating and cooling systems
• Lasts longer than traditional filters
• Easy to install and work with any HVAC system

Humidifiers

Depending on where you live, the proximity to water, and a number of other factors, your home may need a humidifier. As odd as it sounds, yes, it can vary from home to home and typically it is based on the person’s needs and comfort. The easiest way you can tell whether or not your home would benefit from one of these appliances is to allow our technicians to check the moisture levels in your home.

A home that is too dry may irritate skin and breathing passages, leading to itchy spots or nose recurring nosebleeds, while a home that is too humid may end up with mold or musty smells.

Thermostats

Believe it or not, having the proper thermostat could impact the quality of air in your home. Especially if your home tends to be humid, a thermostat that works properly and turns the air on when it’s it needed can help control humidity levels. It’s not to say that a working thermostat will solve all air quality problems, but the regulated flow of air may help stabilize the temperature and room feel.

In addition to thermostats helping with air quality, programmable thermostats help save money on energy bills. You may already have a standard programmable thermostat that allows you to set a temperature and turns on the AC system when the air is too warm. If you don’t, it’s time to consider upgrading. If you do have one of these thermostats, maybe consider one of the newer ‘smart’ thermostats. These little devices can be controlled from your smartphone, can give AC system reports, efficiency reports, and can learn your schedule as to prevent the system from running while you’re away.

The Importance of Indoor Air Filtration & Purification

Many airborne pollutants, such as dust, pet dander, pollen, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can impact the air you breathe daily. Investing in air filtration and purification systems can drastically improve indoor air quality. Here’s how:

Types of Air Purification Systems:

• HEPA Filters: Capture 99.97% of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and bacteria.
• Activated Carbon Filters: Remove odors and harmful chemicals from the air.
• UV Air Purifiers: Kill bacteria, mold spores, and viruses by using ultraviolet light.
• Electrostatic Air Cleaners: Attract and trap airborne contaminants using an electric charge.

By integrating these systems with your HVAC, you can ensure continuous air filtration, reducing allergens and improving your home's air quality.

Choosing Better Air

Unlike breathing the air outside in a polluted city, when you’re inside your home, there is a choice of the quality of air. If you are finding that you, your children, or your spouse are getting sick often and for no apparent reason, consider the air quality of your home. 

All that is needed is a simple consultation with one of our technicians to tell you what you may already know: that your air quality needs a little bit of help. Pat Plumbing, Heating, Air and Electric is the best in the business for a reason, and air quality is no different! We are ready to help you solve that problem! Our customers trust us because of our commitment to quality service and proven results.

Whether you think the air in your home is too dry, too moist, stale, or causing illness, it’s nothing to play around with! Call Pat Plumbing, Heating, Air and Electric at 785-783-5780 today for your consultation!

Commonly Asked Questions

How often should I replace my HVAC air filter?

It's recommended to replace standard HVAC air filters every 1–3 months, depending on usage, pets, and allergies. High-efficiency filters may last up to 6 months but should be checked regularly to ensure optimal performance. Replacing filters on time helps maintain good indoor air quality and keeps your system running efficiently.

Can indoor plants improve air quality?

Yes, certain indoor plants, such as spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants, can help absorb toxins and improve air quality. However, they are not a replacement for proper ventilation and air filtration systems. For significant air quality improvements, consider using air purifiers or upgrading HVAC filters.

How does air quality in Topeka differ from other areas?

Topeka’s air quality can be influenced by seasonal changes, allergens, and humidity levels. Homes in the area often experience higher pollen levels in spring and summer, which can impact indoor air quality. Regular HVAC maintenance and air purifiers can help mitigate local air quality challenges.

Do I need a dehumidifier in Topeka?

Topeka experiences varying humidity levels throughout the year, which can contribute to mold growth and discomfort. If your home feels excessively damp or you notice musty odors, a dehumidifier can help balance moisture levels and improve air quality. Our technicians can assess your home’s needs and recommend the right solution.

What is the difference between air purifiers and air cleaners?

Air purifiers use technologies like HEPA filters or UV light to remove airborne pollutants, bacteria, and allergens. Air cleaners, on the other hand, work within your HVAC system to trap larger particles and improve filtration efficiency. Depending on your needs, a combination of both may offer the best air quality results.

Can poor indoor air quality affect sleep?

Yes, poor air quality can lead to respiratory irritation, allergies, and discomfort, all of which can disrupt sleep. High levels of dust, pet dander, and VOCs can cause congestion and restlessness. Improving air filtration and humidity control can help create a healthier sleep environment.

How can I tell if my home has carbon monoxide issues?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if undetected. Symptoms of CO exposure include dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Installing a carbon monoxide detector and scheduling regular inspections for gas appliances can help prevent CO poisoning.

Is duct cleaning necessary for better air quality?

Duct cleaning can help remove dust, pet dander, and mold buildup, which may improve air circulation and reduce allergens. However, it is only necessary in cases of excessive dust, pest infestations, or mold growth. Our professionals can assess whether your home would benefit from duct cleaning.