Indoor Air Quality Improvement Tips
Tampa Bay’s humid climate and tightly sealed homes can trap pollutants inside, where the air is often two to five times more polluted than outdoors. The good news: improving indoor air quality doesn’t require expensive overhauls. Here are practical steps that make a real difference.
Control pollutants at the source
- Switch to low-VOC or no-VOC paints, cleaners, and adhesives
- Avoid synthetic air fresheners and fragranced candles
- Use kitchen exhaust fans every time you cook, ensuring they vent outside
- Remove shoes at the door to keep outdoor pollutants from spreading
Manage humidity year-round
- Keep indoor humidity between 30 and 50 percent
- Run your AC consistently rather than shutting it off when away
- Add a whole-house dehumidifier for extra moisture control during summer
- Use bathroom exhaust fans during and after every shower
Upgrade and maintain your HVAC system
- Replace standard filters every one to three months
- Upgrade to a higher MERV-rated filter that your system can handle
- Schedule annual professional HVAC maintenance
- Have ductwork inspected and cleaned when needed
- Consider UV germicidal lights or whole-house air purifiers
Reduce allergens and particulates
- Vacuum weekly with a HEPA-filter vacuum
- Wash bedding in hot water every one to two weeks
- Groom pets regularly and wipe their paws after outdoor time
- Dust hard surfaces with a damp cloth instead of dry dusting
Ventilate when conditions allow
- Open windows on opposite sides of the home for cross-ventilation when outdoor air quality is good
- Run ceiling fans to keep air circulating
- Avoid blocking return air vents with furniture
Test before you guess
- Schedule professional indoor air quality testing if you notice musty odors, persistent symptoms, or have had recent water damage
- Use lab-verified results to target improvements where they’ll have the most impact
Small, consistent habits matter more than one-time fixes. Treating indoor air as something to manage continuously is the most effective way to keep your Tampa Bay home healthy year-round.
