Improving Indoor Air Quality (with Jeff May)

Structure Talk

In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa interview Jeff May, an expert in indoor air quality and mold. They discuss various topics related to indoor air quality, including whole-house humidifiers, furnace filters, UV filters, standalone air purifiers, heat recovery ventilators, mini-split systems, and carpet cleaning. Jeff provides valuable insights and recommendations for improving indoor air quality and reducing allergens in homes. In this conversation, Jeff May discusses various aspects of indoor air quality and mold issues. He shares tips on cleaning and treating rugs, as well as testing indoor air quality. He also provides insights on finding qualified professionals and using homeowner testing kits. Jeff shares interesting and unusual cases related to indoor air quality, including the impact of sound and pressure. The conversation concludes with closing remarks and information on how to contact Jeff for more information.
Takeaways

• Use trickle-type humidifiers to maintain proper humidity levels in the home.
• Choose disposable filters with higher MERV ratings for better air filtration.
• Avoid using electronic air filters and UV filters as they are less effective.
• Consider using a DIY air purifier with a high-efficiency filter for targeted air filtration.
• Regularly clean and maintain heat recovery ventilators to prevent mold growth.
• Remove carpets or use steam vapor machines for effective carpet cleaning and allergen reduction. Regularly clean and treat rugs to remove dust and allergens.
• Testing indoor air quality involves taking air samples and identifying the source of mold or other contaminants.
• The Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) is a helpful resource for finding qualified professionals.
• Homeowner testing kits are available for testing dust mite allergens, mold, and VOCs.
• Indoor air quality issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including mold, VOCs, and particulate matter.
• Unusual cases of indoor air quality issues can include vibrations from flooring and changes in air pressure.
• Sound and pressure can have an impact on indoor air quality and human health.
• Contact Jeff May at mayindoorair.com for more information on indoor air quality.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction of Jeff May
03:49 Whole House Humidifiers
07:31 Furnace Filters
17:29 UV Filters
20:31 Standalone Air Purifiers
25:24 Heat Recovery Ventilators and Ventilation Strategies
29:13 Mini Split Systems and Mold Growth
33:11 Low Hanging Fruit for Improving Indoor Air Quality
36:56 Carpet Cleaning and Maintenance
37:57 Cleaning and Treating Rugs
40:02 Testing Indoor Air Quality
42:42 Finding Qualified Professionals
43:23 Homeowner Testing Kits
45:18 Identifying Indoor Air Quality Issues
46:38 Unusual Indoor Air Quality Cases
49:28 Effects of Sound and Pressure
51:09 Closing Remarks