The Importance of Indoor Air Quality During Back-to-School Season! 

Back to school means more than just new supplies, packed lunches, and busy schedules—it also means families are spending more time indoors together. With homework, earlier bedtimes, and the return of cooler evenings, your home becomes the hub of activity once again. 

But have you thought about the quality of the air your family is breathing inside your home? Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a huge role in your comfort, health, and even productivity during the school year. By addressing IAQ now, you can help create a healthier and more comfortable environment for the months ahead.

Back to School = Back to Comfort

When kids return to school, they bring home more than just books. Dust, outdoor allergens, and even germs hitch a ride inside, adding to the pollutants already circulating in your home. At the same time, because families tend to keep windows closed during cooler evenings, indoor air has less opportunity to refresh itself naturally. 

The result? Air that feels stuffy, harder-to-control allergies, and even an increased risk of colds and flu spreading around the household. Improving indoor air quality ensures that your home is not only comfortable but also healthier for your family during this busy season.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

Poor indoor air quality can affect your family in several ways:

• Health concerns – Dust, mold spores, pet dander, and allergens can aggravate asthma and allergies, particularly in children.
• Energy and focus – Stuffy or polluted air can make it harder for kids to concentrate on homework and for adults to feel alert.
• Comfort levels – Excess humidity or stale air can make your home feel less comfortable, even if your HVAC system is running.
• Illness spread – Poor ventilation can allow germs and viruses to linger in the air, increasing the chance of everyone catching the same bug.

By taking steps to improve IAQ, you can reduce these risks and create a space where your family can thrive.

Simple Solutions to Improve Indoor Air Quality

The good news is that there are several effective ways to boost indoor air quality:

• Air purifiers – Whole-home air purifiers work with your HVAC system to remove dust, allergens, and contaminants from the air before they circulate. Portable purifiers are also a good option for bedrooms or study areas.
• Humidity control – A dehumidifier or humidifier, depending on the season, can help balance moisture levels. Balanced humidity reduces mold growth and helps everyone feel more comfortable.
• Regular HVAC maintenance – Scheduling professional maintenance ensures your system is clean, efficient, and circulating air properly. A technician will inspect filters, coils, and ducts to ensure they’re not contributing to poor air quality.
• High-quality air filters – Upgrading to a higher MERV-rated filter can capture smaller particles, such as pollen and bacteria, thereby improving overall air cleanliness.

Why Back-to-School Season Is the Perfect Time

Fall is a natural transition season, and preparing your home’s air quality now sets you up for success throughout the cooler months. By addressing IAQ at the start of the school year, you’re helping your family stay healthier, avoid unnecessary sick days, and create a comfortable environment for study and rest.

Since 1943, it’s been Automatic in Memphis! Contact the experts at Automatic Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing to get started on your indoor air quality services.