We all want and deserve a comfortable, healthy living environment. Our homes are our refuge from the hustle and bustle of the world, and a big part of maintaining a comfortable home is good indoor air quality (IAQ). But healthy IAQ is especially important here in Yuma because our outdoor environment can have a serious impact on our indoor spaces.

Learn how One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning® of Yuma can support your indoor air quality by calling (928) 218-3797.

Why Is Yuma Air Quality Important?

Maintaining healthy indoor air quality can make a huge difference in the daily lives of those who have a compromised immune system or suffer from severe allergies or asthma. But living in the desert southwest’s dry, dusty environment can pose unique challenges for even the healthiest people.

Easy Steps to Improve Indoor Air Quality

There are many steps you can take to improve your home’s indoor air quality. Knowing the sources of indoor air pollution and increasing ventilation are key.

  • Conventional wisdom says to open windows to let fresh air into the home. But this strategy isn’t ideal when it’s 110 degrees outside or if there’s a dust storm rolling through town. Achieving fresh, healthy indoor air can feel impossible in the summer!
  • Controlling indoor air pollution sources is a great place to start. For example, if you have gas appliances such as a stove or furnace, consider switching to electric models to eliminate the byproducts of combusted gas. Always use a hood fan when cooking. If you smoke, do it outdoors (or quit). Choose low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint and non-toxic cleaning products. Have your home tested for radon.
  • Change your HVAC system’s filters at least every three months. Consider changing the filter more often if you have a vulnerable person living in the home, or you have multiple indoor sources of air pollution. Always check the filter after a haboob to see if it’s coated in dust and needs to be switched out immediately.
  • Dust and vacuum your home on a regular basis to help keep allergens under control.
  • Consider using a secondary air filtration system. Additional air filtration can help prevent allergy symptoms, sinus infections, and much more serious conditions such as valley fever.

What Is Valley Fever?

Valley fever is a respiratory infection caused by a fungus called Coccidiodes, which lives in the soil of the desert southwest. Any time the ground is disturbed, such as by agricultural activity, construction work, or dust storms, these fungal spores can become airborne. That’s when people inhale the spores and become infected.

About 20,000 people are diagnosed with valley fever every year. And while most people have mild flu-like symptoms (or no symptoms at all), some develop severe complications like pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

How to Prevent Valley Fever

If members of your family are seniors, immunocompromised, pregnant, or diabetic, they are at higher risk of developing valley fever symptoms and providing additional protection is crucial. Step up your valley fever prevention efforts with some professional assistance.

  • Get your air ducts professionally cleaned every few years.
  • Use an air filtration system to provide another level protection against indoor pollutants and allergens.
  • Have a whole-home humidifier installed to reduce how airborne pathogens and dust are in the home.
  • When outdoor air pollution is high or there’s a dust storm occurring, stay inside and keep windows and doors closed.

One Hour® of Yuma Can Help with Southern AZ Indoor Air Quality

If you need a hand cleaning up your home’s air quality and maintaining a healthy environment, One Hour® of Yuma is here. We’ll be happy to pay you a visit and recommend expert HVAC services that will foster good health and comfort for your whole household. You can rest assured that our technicians are highly qualified, background checked, and will arrive in uniform with fully stocked work trucks, enabling them to perform many services during their first visit.

To get started on the path toward better indoor air quality, request an appointment online or call (928) 218-3797.

Yuma Indoor Air Quality FAQs

Can dogs get valley fever?

Yes, dogs can also get valley fever, just like humans. Cats, livestock, zoo animals, and other creatures can also contract the disease.

Is valley fever contagious?

No, valley fever is not contagious for animals or humans. It can only be contracted by inhaling Coccidiodes spores.

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