🍂 Back Indoors: Fall Cleaning & Air Quality Reset
It’s hard to believe we’re already six months into the Indoor Air Quality program!
October is Healthy Lung Month — the perfect time to give your lungs and your home a fresh start. As cooler weather moves in and we spend more time indoors, a quick “Air Quality Reset” now can help you breathe easier all season long.
A few simple maintenance steps can keep your home air fresh and your lungs happy this winter.
🧹 Fall Indoor Air Quality Checklist
âś… Replace or Check Your HVAC Filter
If you received a MERV 11 air filter, this is a great time to install it (or replace the one you’ve been using). These filters capture fine particles like pollen, pet dander, and even smoke — helping improve the indoor air quality in your home.
Tip:
- Check monthly and replace every 3 months, or sooner if dirty.
âś… Purify and Ventilate Wisely
Keep your indoor air clean and healthy by running your air purifier regularly—especially in the room you use most. On days when outdoor air quality is poor, keep windows closed to help your purifier work more effectively. When the air outside is clean, open windows to refresh your indoor air naturally.
Learn more:
âś… Dust, Vacuum, and Wash Fabrics
Dust accumulates quickly indoors once windows stay shut. Wipe surfaces, vacuum regularly (ideally using a vacuum with a HEPA filter), and wash curtains or rugs to remove dust and allergens.
Learn more:
âś… Clean Vents and Fans
Kitchen and bathroom fans can only do their job if they’re clean. Clean vents mean better airflow and less lung-irritating dust circulating indoors.
Learn more:
âś… Store Summer Chemicals Safely
Paints, fertilizers, and garden chemicals can release fumes. Move them outdoors to a detached garage or shed before winter to protect your indoor air.
Learn more:
🌬️ Why This Matters for Healthy Lungs
When your furnace turns on, it can stir up dust and pollutants. A clean filter, fresh air purifier, and dust-free vents help protect your lungs from irritants, supporting long-term lung health.
âť“ Questions About Improving Your Indoor Air?
If you have questions about using your air purifier or improving your indoor air, don’t hesitate to reach out. 📬 Contact us at cleanairslc@slc.gov.
Missed the previous Indoor Air Quality newsletters? Read them on our blog here!
-The Clean Air SLC Team