As the weather warms up, it’s not just your HVAC system that needs a tune-up—your entire home environment should be prepped for the challenges of summer. Rising humidity, trapped allergens, and poor ventilation can all lead to issues like mold growth, musty odors, and worsened allergy symptoms.
Use this Healthy Home Checklist to get ahead of common summer air quality problems—and breathe easier all season long.
1. Clean Your Air Ducts
Over time, dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores accumulate in your ductwork. Once the air conditioning kicks on, those particles can circulate throughout your entire home. Professional air duct cleaning removes built-up debris, improves airflow, and supports healthier indoor air.
2. Replace HVAC Filters
Old or clogged air filters reduce HVAC efficiency and allow airborne particles to linger. Replace filters every 1–3 months to help your system perform better and to reduce allergens like pollen and dust mites that spike in warmer months.
3. Monitor Humidity Levels
High humidity is a major contributor to mold growth. Use a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity and keep levels between 30–50%. If your home consistently runs high—especially in basements or crawl spaces—consider installing a whole-home dehumidifier.
4. Seal Your Crawl Space
If you have an unsealed or vented crawl space, warm, humid air can create the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Encapsulation with a vapor barrier and moisture control system helps prevent mold, protects your foundation, and improves the quality of the air you breathe upstairs.
5. Schedule an Indoor Air Quality Assessment
Indoor air can be up to 5x more polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. A professional IAQ assessment helps identify issues like poor ventilation, airborne contaminants, or mold spores that can impact your family’s health—especially during allergy season.
6. Deep Clean Soft Surfaces
Fabrics like curtains, rugs, and upholstery can trap allergens and odors. Steam cleaning or washing them before the peak of summer helps reduce indoor pollutants and freshens your living space.
7. Check for Musty Odors or Water Stains
Unexplained odors or stains are often early signs of hidden moisture or mold. Inspect basements, attics, and crawl spaces regularly—especially after heavy spring rains.
Take Action Now for a Healthier Summer
By checking these items off your list in May, you’ll not only improve your home’s comfort—you’ll help prevent long-term damage and health risks.
At Green Home Solutions of Naperville, IL, we specialize in indoor air quality, mold prevention, crawl space encapsulation, and more. Whether you need an air duct cleaning or a full moisture control plan, we make air better—just in time for summer.