10 Easy Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Key Takeaways

How can I improve indoor air quality at home?

To improve indoor air quality:

• Use high-quality HVAC filters and change them regularly.
• Improve ventilation with exhaust fans or ERVs.
• Invest in an air purifier to remove fine pollutants.
• Control humidity levels with a humidifier or dehumidifier.
• Reduce dust and allergens by vacuuming with a HEPA filter.
• Choose low-VOC paints, furniture, and cleaning products.

Indoor air quality (IAQ) affects both health and comfort, yet many homeowners overlook just how much dust, allergens, and pollutants circulate inside. In Las Vegas, where dry desert air and dust storms are common, keeping indoor air clean becomes even more important.

If allergies, headaches, or dry, irritated skin are frequent issues, the air inside your home may be contributing to the problem. Fortunately, improving IAQ doesn’t require costly renovations—just a few simple changes can make a noticeable difference.

1. Upgrade Your HVAC Filters

Your HVAC system constantly moves air through your home, and the quality of your filter determines how well it traps dust, pet dander, and airborne particles.

• Why it matters: Basic fiberglass filters catch only large debris, allowing smaller allergens to pass through. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters or MERV-rated filters can capture microscopic pollutants.
• What to do: Replace filters every 1–3 months, especially if you have pets or allergy concerns. A clogged filter reduces airflow, making your system work harder while allowing pollutants to circulate.

2. Improve Home Ventilation

Ventilation plays a key role in removing stale indoor air and replacing it with fresh air. But in a hot climate like Las Vegas, simply opening windows isn’t always practical.

• Why it matters: Poor airflow leads to a buildup of pollutants like carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and household odors.
• What to do: If opening windows isn’t an option, install:
  • Exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture and odors
  • Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) for fresh air without compromising energy efficiency
  • Ceiling fans to circulate air and prevent stagnant pockets

3. Invest in an Air Purification System

Air purifiers go beyond HVAC filters by removing dust, pollen, mold spores, and airborne bacteria. For asthma or allergy sufferers, they can make a significant difference.

• Why it matters: Some pollutants are too small for standard HVAC filters. Air purifiers use activated carbon, HEPA filters, or UV-C light to neutralize contaminants.
• What to do: Consider a whole-home purifier that integrates with your HVAC system, or use portable air purifiers in bedrooms and common areas.

4. Keep Air Ducts Clean

Your HVAC ductwork moves air throughout your home. Over time, dust, pet hair, mold spores, and even pests can settle inside.

• Why it matters: Dirty ducts restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder while pushing pollutants into your living space.
• What to do: Have ducts professionally cleaned every 3–5 years, or sooner if you notice:
  • Excess dust around vents
  • Musty or unpleasant odors
  • Increased allergy symptoms

5. Control Humidity Levels

Las Vegas air is naturally dry, which can irritate sinuses, cause dry skin, and even lead to static electricity buildup.

• Why it matters: Low humidity makes it easier for dust and allergens to become airborne. It can also damage wooden furniture and flooring over time.
• What to do:
  • Use a whole-home humidifier to maintain balanced indoor humidity
  • Keep levels between 30–50% for optimal comfort
  • Add moisture naturally with houseplants like ferns or peace lilies

6. Use Natural Cleaning Products

Many cleaning products contain chemicals that release VOCs into the air.

• Why it matters: Harsh chemicals in sprays, air fresheners, and disinfectants can trigger respiratory issues, headaches, and allergic reactions.
• What to do:
  • Switch to fragrance-free or plant-based cleaners
  • Use baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice as natural alternatives
  • Avoid aerosol sprays and choose essential oil diffusers instead

7. Reduce Indoor Pollutants

Furniture, paint, and carpets often contain formaldehyde and other VOCs that linger in the air.

• Why it matters: VOC exposure has been linked to eye irritation, dizziness, and long-term health effects.
• What to do:
  • Choose low-VOC paints, furniture, and flooring
  • Avoid synthetic air fresheners and scented candles
  • Wash new fabrics before bringing them inside to remove chemical residues

8. Keep Floors and Surfaces Clean

Dust, pollen, and pet dander settle on floors and furniture, only to be stirred up with movement.

• Why it matters: Walking on dust-covered floors recirculates pollutants into the air.
• What to do:
  • Vacuum with a HEPA filter at least twice a week
  • Mop hard floors to remove fine dust particles
  • Wash bedding and curtains regularly to reduce allergen buildup

9. Add Air-Purifying Plants

Houseplants do more than enhance décor—they also help filter indoor air.

• Why it matters: Certain plants absorb toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide while releasing fresh oxygen.
• Best options:
  • Spider plants: Reduce carbon monoxide
  • Snake plants: Remove airborne toxins
  • Peace lilies: Filter VOCs and improve humidity levels

10. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

An HVAC system can’t keep air clean if it’s clogged with dust or running inefficiently.

• Why it matters: Routine maintenance keeps filters, ducts, and components clean while improving efficiency.
• What to do:
  • Schedule an HVAC checkup twice a year (before summer and winter)
  • Have a technician inspect for mold, dust buildup, and leaks
  • Upgrade to an air purification system for enhanced filtration

Create a Healthier Home with Evolve Air Conditioning & Heating

Cleaner air leads to a healthier home. Small changes can make a significant impact on air quality, reducing allergens, pollutants, and respiratory discomfort.

At Evolve Air Conditioning & Heating, we specialize in:

• Air purification systems
• Duct cleaning and HVAC maintenance
• Whole-home ventilation solutions

Call us today at 702.809.6617 or book an appointment online. Let’s improve your home’s air quality!

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