How much does an HVAC checkup typically cost in Columbus, Ohio?

In Columbus, Ohio, most homeowners can expect to pay between $75 and $150 for a single HVAC checkup, depending on the company, how detailed the tune-up is, and whether the visit covers both heating and cooling equipment. Basic inspections fall near the lower end of the range, while more comprehensive system tune-ups fall toward the higher end.

What is usually included in an HVAC checkup?

A typical HVAC checkup includes inspecting and changing the air filter, checking thermostat operation, tightening electrical connections, verifying refrigerant levels, inspecting the blower motor and belts, checking visible ductwork and vents, and performing basic safety and efficiency tests. For gas furnaces, a checkup may also include burner inspection and carbon monoxide testing.

How often should I schedule an HVAC checkup in Columbus?

Most Columbus homeowners benefit from scheduling at least one HVAC checkup per year, typically in spring or fall. Many choose two visits per year: one before cooling season to service the air conditioner and one before heating season to service the furnace or heat pump. Regular maintenance helps reduce breakdowns and extend equipment life.

Can an HVAC checkup help lower my energy bills?

Yes. A well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently and does not have to work as hard to keep your home comfortable. Cleaning coils and filters, correcting airflow issues, and catching failing parts early can reduce energy use and lower monthly utility bills, especially during peak heating and cooling months.

How to Make the Air Quality in My Home Noticeably Better?

Did you know that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air? (EPA).

This alarming statistic highlights the need for improving the air quality in your home. Poor indoor air can cause allergies, respiratory issues, and fatigue. But don

’

t worry

—

there are practical steps you can take to significantly improve the air you breathe inside your home.

Understanding Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the condition of the air inside buildings and how it affects human health. Various factors influence IAQ, including pollutants, ventilation, and humidity levels.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants

To improve indoor air quality, you must first understand what affects it. Here are the most common pollutants:

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
: Found in paints, cleaners, and synthetic fragrances.
Particulate Matter (PM)
: Tiny airborne particles from dust, smoke, and cooking.
Biological Contaminants
: Mold, bacteria, pet dander, and dust mites.
Combustion Pollutants
: Carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide from stoves, fireplaces, and tobacco smoke.

How to Fix Poor Air Quality in House?

Improving air quality is a

multi-step process

that involves reducing pollutants, increasing ventilation, and using air-purifying techniques.

Increase Ventilation

•
Open Windows and Doors: Allow fresh air to circulate whenever possible.


•
Use Exhaust Fans: Install and regularly use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.

    Consider an Air Exchange System: These systems remove stale indoor air and replace it with fresh outdoor air.

2.
Control Humidity Levels


•
Use Dehumidifiers: Ideal for damp areas like basements to prevent mold growth.


•
Fix Leaks: Check for water leaks that may contribute to high humidity levels.


•
Houseplants: Some plants help regulate indoor humidity naturally.

3.
Clean Regularly


•
Vacuum with HEPA Filters: This removes fine dust and pet dander.


•
Dust Surfaces Frequently: Use a damp cloth to trap dust rather than spreading it.


•
Wash Bedding Weekly: Mites and allergens accumulate in fabric over time.

4.
Choose Low-VOC Products


•
Paints & Finishes: Opt for
“
low-VOC
”
or
“
zero-VOC
”
labeled products.


•
Cleaning Products: Avoid harsh chemicals and switch to natural alternatives.

5.
Reduce Combustion Pollutants


•
Avoid Indoor Smoking: Smoke contains hazardous chemicals that linger in the air.


•
Use Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Essential for homes with gas stoves and fireplaces.

How Do I Detox the Air in My House?

If you suspect your indoor air is toxic, follow these strategies to detoxify your home.
Invest in an Air Purifier

•
HEPA Filters: Capture 99.97% of airborne pollutants.

•

Activated Carbon Filters: Remove odors and chemical toxins.

•

We recommend the

Evolution Air Purifier

2. Incorporate Air-Purifying Plants

Some plants absorb toxins and improve air quality:

Spider Plant

: Removes carbon monoxide.

Peace Lily

: Absorbs formaldehyde.

Snake Plant

: Filters nitrogen oxides and benzene.

3. Use Natural Cleaning Products

DIY Cleaners

: Mix vinegar, baking soda, and lemon for chemical-free cleaning.

Eco-Friendly Brands

: Many companies offer plant-based cleaning solutions.

What Are the Symptoms of Poor Air Quality in the House?

Indoor air pollution often goes unnoticed, but certain symptoms may indicate a problem:

Allergy Symptoms
: Runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes.
Respiratory Issues
: Shortness of breath, coughing, asthma flare-ups.
Fatigue & Headaches
: Exposure to pollutants can cause brain fog and exhaustion.
Musty Odors
: A sign of mold or mildew growth.

The Impact of Cooking Methods on Indoor Air Quality

Cooking releases airborne particles that can degrade air quality. Gas stoves, in particular, emit nitrogen dioxide, which can be harmful. (The Guardian)

Solutions:

Use Induction Cooktops
: These eliminate combustion emissions.
Run an Exhaust Fan
: Always use ventilation while cooking.
Minimize Frying
: High-heat cooking methods release more pollutants.

The Role of Building Design in Air Quality

The way a home is built impacts air circulation. Modern homes are often sealed tightly for energy efficiency, but this can trap pollutants inside.

Install Ventilation Systems
: HVAC systems should be equipped with high-efficiency filters.
hoose Building Materials Wisely
: Low-emission paints, adhesives, and insulation improve IAQ.

Advanced Air Quality Improvement Techniques

For those looking for additional improvements, consider these advanced options:

Smart Air Quality Monitors
Devices like Airthings or Awair track air quality in real-time and alert you to pollution spikes.
Whole-House Air Purifier Installation
These integrate with HVAC systems to filter air throughout the home.
UV Light Air Purifiers
Kills airborne bacteria and viruses for improved indoor air hygiene.

Improve Air Quality in Your Home with an Air Quality Audit

New homes are built to be airtight and highly insulated, making them energy-efficient. However, this can lead to less fresh air, trapped indoor pollutants, and constant air recirculation, which can cause discomfort and health issues.

No need to worry

—

we

’

ve got you covered! Our expert services at

Bryant Heating and Cooling

include a thorough air quality audit and tailored solutions to enhance your indoor air quality, ensuring your home stays both energy-efficient and comfortable.

Final Thoughts

By applying these strategies, you can noticeably improve the air quality in your home. A cleaner indoor environment means better health, comfort, and peace of mind. Start with simple changes like better ventilation and air-purifying plants, and work toward more advanced solutions like smart monitors and HEPA filtration systems.

Author: Bryant Heating, Cooling & Refrigeration

Bryant Heating & Cooling is a professional heating and cooling service provider that is family owned and operated. They have been in the HVAC business since 1983, providing reliable services to various locations throughout central Ohio. Their extensive years of experience in the field make them experts in the industry, capable of handling all types of heating and cooling needs.

How to Make the Air Quality in My Home Noticeably Better?

Did you know that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air? (EPA).

This alarming statistic highlights the need for improving the air quality in your home. Poor indoor air can cause allergies, respiratory issues, and fatigue. But don

’

t worry

—

there are practical steps you can take to significantly improve the air you breathe inside your home.

Understanding Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the condition of the air inside buildings and how it affects human health. Various factors influence IAQ, including pollutants, ventilation, and humidity levels.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants

To improve indoor air quality, you must first understand what affects it. Here are the most common pollutants:

: Found in paints, cleaners, and synthetic fragrances.

: Tiny airborne particles from dust, smoke, and cooking.

: Mold, bacteria, pet dander, and dust mites.

: Carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide from stoves, fireplaces, and tobacco smoke.

How to Fix Poor Air Quality in House?

Improving air quality is a

that involves reducing pollutants, increasing ventilation, and using air-purifying techniques.

Open Windows and Doors: Allow fresh air to circulate whenever possible.

Use Exhaust Fans: Install and regularly use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.

Consider an Air Exchange System: These systems remove stale indoor air and replace it with fresh outdoor air.

2.

Use Dehumidifiers: Ideal for damp areas like basements to prevent mold growth.

Fix Leaks: Check for water leaks that may contribute to high humidity levels.

Houseplants: Some plants help regulate indoor humidity naturally.

3.

Vacuum with HEPA Filters: This removes fine dust and pet dander.

Dust Surfaces Frequently: Use a damp cloth to trap dust rather than spreading it.

Wash Bedding Weekly: Mites and allergens accumulate in fabric over time.

4.

Paints & Finishes: Opt for

“

low-VOC

”

or

“

zero-VOC

”

labeled products.

Cleaning Products: Avoid harsh chemicals and switch to natural alternatives.

5.

Avoid Indoor Smoking: Smoke contains hazardous chemicals that linger in the air.

Use Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Essential for homes with gas stoves and fireplaces.

How Do I Detox the Air in My House?

If you suspect your indoor air is toxic, follow these strategies to detoxify your home.

Invest in an Air Purifier

HEPA Filters: Capture 99.97% of airborne pollutants.

Activated Carbon Filters: Remove odors and chemical toxins.

We recommend the

Some plants absorb toxins and improve air quality:

: Removes carbon monoxide.

: Absorbs formaldehyde.

: Filters nitrogen oxides and benzene.

3. Use Natural Cleaning Products

: Mix vinegar, baking soda, and lemon for chemical-free cleaning.

: Many companies offer plant-based cleaning solutions.

What Are the Symptoms of Poor Air Quality in the House?

Indoor air pollution often goes unnoticed, but certain symptoms may indicate a problem:

: Runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes.

: Shortness of breath, coughing, asthma flare-ups.

: Exposure to pollutants can cause brain fog and exhaustion.

: A sign of mold or mildew growth.

The Impact of Cooking Methods on Indoor Air Quality

Cooking releases airborne particles that can degrade air quality. Gas stoves, in particular, emit nitrogen dioxide, which can be harmful. (The Guardian)

Solutions:

: These eliminate combustion emissions.

: Always use ventilation while cooking.

: High-heat cooking methods release more pollutants.

The Role of Building Design in Air Quality

The way a home is built impacts air circulation. Modern homes are often sealed tightly for energy efficiency, but this can trap pollutants inside.

: HVAC systems should be equipped with high-efficiency filters.

: Low-emission paints, adhesives, and insulation improve IAQ.

Advanced Air Quality Improvement Techniques

For those looking for additional improvements, consider these advanced options:

Devices like Airthings or Awair track air quality in real-time and alert you to pollution spikes.

These integrate with HVAC systems to filter air throughout the home.

Kills airborne bacteria and viruses for improved indoor air hygiene.

Improve Air Quality in Your Home with an Air Quality Audit

New homes are built to be airtight and highly insulated, making them energy-efficient. However, this can lead to less fresh air, trapped indoor pollutants, and constant air recirculation, which can cause discomfort and health issues.

No need to worry