Between the smoky hazy air from California’s latest wildfires and the extra time you’re likely spending in your home this year, you may be wondering if your indoor air quality (IAQ) needs some attention. Even in normal circumstances, indoor air is often more polluted than outside air, but 2020 has made things extra challenging. Luckily, the IAQ professionals at Brower Mechanical have some tips and tricks to reduce indoor air pollutants and create a healthier living environment for you and your family.
What are the Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality?
Have you been suffering from any of the following health issues?
- Irritation of the eyes, nose or throat
- Increased allergy symptoms
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Strange odors, including musty smells
- Poor sleep
- Excess dust build-up
If so, it could be the result of unhealthy air in your home, and it’s a good idea to ask the whole home experts at Brower to help determine the source of your poor indoor air quality and recommend a solution.
What Does an Energy Audit Have to Do with Indoor Air Quality?
Many Sacramento CA area homeowners are surprised to learn that poor insulation and leaks in their walls, floors, and ceilings can cause so much discomfort— not to mention higher energy bills! An energy audit from the professionals at Brower Mechanical can not only find areas where energy is being wasted in your home, but can identify the root causes behind your uncomfortable and unhealthy air as well.
One of the main causes of poor indoor air quality is a leaky, poorly insulated home. A home energy audit uses specialized tools and scientific data to diagnose exactly where your home may need insulation and air sealing. An energy audit includes:
- Blower door test
- Infrared imaging scan
- Inspection of visible attic insulation
- Identifying problem areas that are too hot or too cold
- Complete report and recommendations
Once the data is collected you’ll be able to see exactly where your home needs to be air sealed (often called weatherizing) and insulated.
Air Sealing & Insulation Upgrades—Cost Effective Solutions for Healthy Air
When your home has too many air leaks and ineffective insulation, outside air can leak in, bringing unwanted air pollutants inside that can circulate through your home. By eliminating these leaks with air sealing, your air can be circulated through your home’s filtered heating and cooling systems, without allowing bad air in. Your well-sealed home’s new insulation will work as it is designed to, keeping conditioned air inside your home.
What Kind of Insulation is Best?
Fortunately, Brower Mechanical is an experienced Insulation contractor for homes in Sacramento and neighboring Davis and Elk Grove CA. For homes in the Sacramento area our insulation technicians typical recommend two types of insulation:
Cellulose Insulation
This non-toxic insulation is typically used in existing homes because it fills in easily around existing pipes and wiring. Made from primarily recycled newspapers, cellulose is a green product that can also dampen sounds in ceilings and walls. Typically the insulation technicians will air seal areas prior to adding cellulose insulation.
Spray Foam Insulation
This insulation is extremely effective at both sealing cracks and gaps while providing superior insulation properties. Spray foam can reach into the nooks and crannies to provide an effective barrier to keep your home comfortable.
Enhanced Air Purifying to Scrub Indoor Air
Once your home is insulated and sealed properly, you’ll see your home energy costs stabilize and your home performance improve, but our indoor air quality experts also have an array of additional indoor air quality solutions including enhanced ventilation like whole house fans and our filter program for cleaner air. Some customers also want to take advantage of Brower Mechanical’s advanced UV light air purifying systems. While air filters can trap large molecule contaminants like dust, smoke particles, and allergens, UV light filters offer an extra layer of protection against mold, VOCs, and even smaller bacteria and viruses that can also harm your family’s health.
Worried about your home’s Indoor air health? Call (916) 775-7492 or contact us today to talk to an insulation expert.