Home / Resources / Indoor Air Quality Checklist Homeowner checklist

Indoor Air Quality Checklist

Dust that comes right back, musty smells and allergy symptoms at home usually have a source you can find. Walk through these checks to narrow it down.

Rather talk to a person? Office Mon–Fri 7am–5pm. Free estimates. Call (281) 416-5474 Request an estimate online

Tap each item as you check it. Nothing is saved or sent anywhere.

Your household

6 items

Home built before the 1980s
Someone has allergies or asthma that's worse at home
Pets live indoors
Smoking, strong air fresheners or scented candles in the house
New furniture, carpet or recent painting
Signs of rodents or insects

Around the house

6 items

Dust settles again within a day or two of cleaning
Musty smell in closets, bathrooms or after the AC turns on
Mold spots on ceilings, window frames or around vents
Condensation on windows or sweating ducts
Indoor humidity often above 60% (a basic hygrometer can tell you)
Bathroom and kitchen fans that are weak or vent into the attic

Your AC and ducts

5 items

Return air filter is dirty, the wrong size or past its change date
Dark streaks or dust buildup around supply registers
Dust, rust or water in the indoor unit
Slime or standing water in the drain pan
Attic ducts that are crushed, disconnected or have torn insulation

Easy fixes to try first

Filter

Change it on schedule

Check monthly and change every one to three months. Use the highest MERV rating your system is designed for.

Humidity

Keep it between 30% and 50%

The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity below 60%, ideally 30% to 50%. Run bath fans and fix leaks promptly.

Sources

Cut down what's added to the air

Open windows on mild days, store paints and cleaners outside the living space, and go easy on fragrances.

Sources

U.S. EPA: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home

Keep reading

AC inspection checklist AC & heating FAQs Attic insulation FAQs Our HVAC services →

Checked more than a few?

Our team can inspect your AC, ducts and attic and tell you what's affecting your air.

Call (281) 416-5474 Free estimate