How to Improve the Air Quality of Your Home

Indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air—and most homeowners don’t even realize it. In high-value areas like Los Altos, maintaining a healthy home environment is just as important as curb appeal and square footage. Whether you're planning upgrades or preparing to sell, knowing how to improve the air quality of your home can enhance comfort, well-being, and long-term value.

Los Altos is known for its scenic beauty, mild climate, and tree-lined streets, but even here, indoor air pollution can be a hidden problem. Pollen, wildfire smoke, dust from nearby construction, and off-gassing from furniture and finishes can all impact indoor air. With the trend toward energy-efficient, tightly sealed homes, pollutants can accumulate faster if not properly managed.

Learning how to improve the air quality of your home ensures a healthier living environment, especially for households with children, pets, or allergy-sensitive individuals. It also supports the longevity of your home’s systems and furnishings by controlling moisture and contaminants that can cause damage over time.

One of the most effective ways to improve indoor air quality is by ensuring your home is properly ventilated. In Los Altos, where many homes are equipped with modern HVAC systems or have undergone energy-efficiency upgrades, it's essential to ensure that those systems also support healthy airflow.

Using a combination of exhaust fans (particularly in kitchens and bathrooms), trickle vents, and openable windows can help exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air. For homes near traffic-heavy areas like El Camino Real or Foothill Expressway, investing in mechanical ventilation systems with high-grade filters can help reduce outdoor pollutants from entering your space.

Maintaining the right humidity level—ideally between 30% and 50%—is crucial for healthy indoor air. Excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew, while air that's too dry can cause respiratory irritation. Even in the generally temperate Los Altos climate, homes can experience swings in humidity due to seasonal changes or poorly ventilated bathrooms and kitchens.

Using a smart thermostat or a portable humidity monitor can help track levels, while installing dehumidifiers (or humidifiers) where needed keeps the environment balanced. This is especially important in older homes or in remodeled spaces with added insulation, which can unintentionally trap moisture.

Swapping out basic air filters for high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters or MERV-rated filters (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) is a straightforward way to trap more dust, allergens, and microscopic irritants. These filters are designed to capture fine particles such as smoke, pollen, pet dander, and even some bacteria, making them a wise upgrade for anyone looking to improve the air quality of their home.

In Los Altos, where wildfire smoke can become a seasonal concern, homeowners should also consider whole-house air purifiers that integrate with the HVAC system. These systems run continuously in the background, helping to maintain clean air throughout every room.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals released into the air from paints, finishes, cleaning products, and synthetic furnishings. Over time, exposure to VOCs can lead to headaches, dizziness, and long-term health issues. When upgrading or decorating your home, opt for low-VOC or no-VOC paints, sealants, and adhesives.

In Los Altos, many homeowners already prioritize eco-conscious living, so this is a natural next step. Likewise, choosing green-certified cleaning products and avoiding harsh chemical sprays will further help you improve indoor air quality while keeping your home fresh and healthy.

Houseplants add beauty to a home and help filter indoor air. Certain varieties like snake plants, pothos, and peace lilies are known for their air-purifying abilities. However, it's important to remember that while plants contribute to better air, they shouldn't be your sole strategy.

In homes with pets or allergy-prone residents, be mindful of which plants are non-toxic and allergy-friendly. Pairing a few well-placed indoor plants with other air quality improvements can enhance both the health and aesthetic appeal of your Los Altos home.

Dust, pollen, and pet hair don’t just settle on floors—they accumulate in vents, ducts, and less obvious corners of the home. Scheduling professional duct cleaning every few years (especially after renovations) helps prevent re-circulating particles through your HVAC system.

In day-to-day life, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter, damp dusting furniture, and washing bedding regularly can significantly reduce the allergens present indoors. In Los Altos homes with open floor plans and large windows, regular cleaning also prevents outdoor pollutants from becoming long-term indoor irritants.

Standalone air purifiers can make a meaningful difference, particularly in bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices. Look for units with HEPA filtration and activated carbon to handle both particles and odors. In multi-level or larger homes, placing air purifiers strategically—especially near entryways or areas with more foot traffic—can keep the air noticeably fresher.

Many Los Altos homeowners appreciate the quiet operation and smart home integration of newer purifiers, which can be monitored and adjusted remotely. These devices are a smart complement to HVAC upgrades, especially if someone in the household has asthma or allergies.

Improving the air quality of your home doesn’t require a complete overhaul—just thoughtful steps tailored to your space and lifestyle. From ventilation upgrades to smarter material choices, there are many ways to create a healthier environment for you and your family.

If you're considering upgrades or looking for homes that already feature high-performance systems, The Campi Group can help you find or refine a property that supports your wellness goals. Contact their team today to learn more about how to improve the air quality of your home in Los Altos.