Question 1

How do I test the air quality in my home?

Accepted Answer

Start with a free online assessment like this one to identify risk factors. For measured data, use a home air quality monitor ($50-$200) that tracks PM2.5, CO2, humidity, and temperature. Professional indoor air quality testing ($200-$500) adds mold testing, VOC measurement, and radon screening.

Question 2

What is a good indoor air quality score for a home?

Accepted Answer

On our 30-point scale, 25-30 is excellent (A grade), 18-24 is good (B grade), 10-17 is fair (C grade), and 0-9 is poor (D grade). Most homes score between 15-22. Common improvements include upgrading HVAC filters, increasing ventilation, and reducing chemical air freshener use.

Question 3

What causes poor indoor air quality?

Accepted Answer

The most common causes are: dirty HVAC filters, pet dander, smoking, poor ventilation, high humidity promoting mold, chemical off-gassing from new furniture or paint, carpet trapping allergens, and contaminated ductwork. Homes with multiple risk factors see the biggest improvement from targeted interventions.

Question 4

Does cleaning air ducts improve air quality?

Accepted Answer

In homes with contaminated ducts (pet dander buildup, post-renovation dust, visible mold), duct cleaning can measurably improve indoor air quality. For well-maintained homes, the EPA notes that evidence is inconclusive. The biggest air quality improvements come from proper filtration (MERV 11-13), ventilation, and humidity control.

Question 5

How can I improve my indoor air quality score?

Accepted Answer

The highest-impact improvements are: upgrade to MERV 11 or MERV 13 filters and change them monthly, run exhaust fans in kitchen and bathrooms, vacuum weekly with a HEPA-equipped vacuum, reduce use of scented candles and chemical air fresheners, maintain indoor humidity between 30-50%, and get duct cleaning if ducts haven't been serviced in 5+ years.

Indoor Air Quality Score

1. How often do you change your HVAC filter?

2. How many pets live in your home?

3. Does anyone in the home smoke indoors?

4. When were your ducts last professionally cleaned?

5. Do you notice mold or musty smells in your home?

6. Do you regularly use chemical air fresheners or candles?

7. What type of flooring do you have in most rooms?

8. Is your home over 20 years old?

9. Any renovations in the last 12 months?

10. Do you vacuum at least once a week?

11. Do you have vent fans in the kitchen and bathroom?

12. Do you notice more dust than expected on surfaces?

13. Is airflow even across all rooms?

14. Do household members experience allergy or respiratory symptoms at home?

15. Do you have both CO and smoke detectors?

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