5 Ways to Improve Your Indoor Time

We're all spending a lot more time at inside these days. Shouldn’t you make the most of your indoor time? Here’s how to create a healthier, more comfortable, even more productive indoor environment in your home.

Space conditioning is essential to indoor comfort. Hire a qualified professional to inspect and clean your heating and cooling system at least once a year. Change air filters regularly according to manufacturer’s guidelines. If your system is 10 years old or more, consider upgrading to a new ENERGY STAR model. ENERGY STAR products have been independently certified to provide efficient performance.

Brighten up your home with LED lighting. LEDs are not only more efficient and longer lasting than conventional bulbs, but they also provide improved light quality, helping you see things better. What’s more, LEDs are available in different color tones—from warm yellow to cool blue. So, there’s an LED that’s perfect for having a quiet dinner, doing laundry, working in your home office, or whatever you’re doing.

Excess humidity not only makes you less comfortable, it can cause musty odors and mold growth. Your air conditioning system helps control humidity levels throughout your home, but some areas—such as the basement, kitchen and bathroom—may need extra help. In these areas, an ENERGY STAR certified dehumidifier or exhaust fan can help reduce humidity levels and moisture buildup.

Fresh outdoor air can help keep your indoor environment from getting stale. Opening windows when the temperature is right can help bring in fresh air and reduce the concentration of indoor air pollutants. Energy recovery ventilators can efficiently exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air throughout your home. They can be installed as part of your HVAC system or as a stand-alone unit.

Smart technologies can really make your indoor life easier. Wi-Fi thermostats provide remote control, and some models can even program themselves based on your lifestyle. Connected appliances can alert you if the fridge door has been left open or keep you updated on how much time is left on your clothes washer cycle. Home automation systems tie it all together, helping you cook dinner, do your laundry and stay comfortable, all from one mobile app.