Why Indoor Air Quality Matters — and What You Can Do About It

The Air You Breathe Indoors Matters More Than You Think

Most people assume that pollution is something that happens outside — smog, car exhaust, factory emissions. But the truth is, the air inside your home can be two to five times more polluted than the air outdoors, according to the EPA.

Between Pennsylvania’s seasonal humidity, older homes in the Lehigh Valley, and tightly sealed modern construction, your indoor air can trap dust, pet dander, mold spores, and other contaminants that affect your comfort and health.

That’s where proper indoor air quality management comes in — and it’s something Faust Heating, Cooling & Electric can help with.

What Is “Indoor Air Quality”?

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the condition of the air inside your home or business — especially as it relates to the health and comfort of occupants. Poor IAQ happens when pollutants build up faster than they can be filtered or ventilated.

Common indoor pollutants include:

• Dust and pet dander

• Mold spores (often from damp basements or humidifiers)

• Pollen tracked in from outdoors

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paints, cleaning products, and furniture

• Carbon monoxide and combustion byproducts from heating systems

How Poor Air Quality Affects Your Health and Home

Breathing low-quality air doesn’t just cause sneezing — it can lead to a range of issues:

• Allergies and respiratory irritation (especially for kids and seniors)

• Headaches, fatigue, and brain fog from high VOC levels

• Mold growth that can damage walls and furniture

• Dry air problems, such as nosebleeds or cracked skin in winter

• Higher energy costs, since dirty air restricts airflow and makes your HVAC work harder

Simple Steps to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Here are some effective ways to start breathing cleaner air today:

Replace HVAC Filters Regularly

Your system’s air filter is your first line of defense. Faust recommends changing filters every 1–3 months, depending on pets, allergies, and home size.

Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

Professional tune-ups ensure that your system isn’t spreading dust or mold. Faust’s technicians clean coils, check ducts, and optimize airflow for better IAQ.

Control Humidity Levels

Both excess moisture and overly dry air can cause issues. Whole-home humidifiers and dehumidifiers keep levels between 30–50%, ideal for comfort and health.

Add Air Purifiers or UV Light Systems

Advanced air purifiers trap tiny particles, while UV lights can kill bacteria and mold spores circulating through your ductwork. Faust installs systems compatible with most HVAC setups.

Improve Ventilation

Make sure exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms are functional, and consider a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) if your home is tightly sealed.

When to Call the Professionals

If you notice persistent dust, humidity issues, or allergy symptoms that worsen indoors, it may be time to have your home’s air quality tested. Faust Heating, Cooling & Electric offers:

• Indoor air quality assessments

• Air purifier and filtration installations

• Duct cleaning and sealing

• Humidity control systems

Our team can identify the source of your air issues and design a custom solution to keep your home healthy and comfortable year-round.

Breathe Easier with Faust Heating, Cooling & Electric

Your home should be a place where you can relax — not worry about what’s in the air. By taking a few simple steps and partnering with local professionals who understand the Lehigh Valley’s unique climate, you can protect your family’s health and improve your comfort.

Ready to breathe cleaner air?

Contact Faust Heating, Cooling & Electric today to schedule an indoor air quality consultation or HVAC system tune-up.