Common Indoor Air Quality Issues
Quick Summary: Many San Diego homeowners don’t realize that indoor air quality (IAQ) can be just as problematic as outdoor pollution. This blog breaks down the most common IAQ issues in the region—like pollen, wildfire smoke, mold, and pet dander—while offering practical tips on how to address them. New sections walk readers through how seasonal shifts affect air quality, why IAQ matters more than most people think, and simple steps to keep the air in your home cleaner and healthier.
While living in San Diego is great for its weather, size, and more, its residents can also have common problems with their indoor air quality that they don’t even think about. IAQ issues can be detrimental to one’s health, so it is important to always be aware of issues that can cause problems. Read along to our guide below of some of the biggest IAQ issues in San Diego, and ways that you can prevent them.
What Are Some Common IAQ Issues in San Diego?
While it may not seem like it, things all around us can lead to issues with indoor air quality for your San Diego home. Some common issues that you should be aware of include:
- Pollen Allergens – The mild temperature and low humidity climate of San Diego makes it primed for pollen allergies throughout the year. Pollen from all different types of sources can find its way into your home, so it is smart to have an air purification system.
- Wildfire Smoke – Especially in California, wildfires have become a common occurrence. These massive fires release smoke and harmful pollutants into the air. This can affect you even if you live hundreds of miles away as it travels through the air. During these types of events, it is very important to keep your windows and doors closed throughout the day.
- Mold and Moisture – Plumbing problems and leaky roofs can cause moisture to make its way into your vents, creating mold, and leaving you with an IAQ problem in your home. This can cause a wide range of issues from allergies to even respiratory infections in some cases.
- Pet Dander and Dust – Like many homes, our furry friends are part of our family. But they can leave behind dander and fur that cause allergies and exacerbate respiratory conditions. It is important to frequently vacuum and clean after your pets.
- Poor Ventilation – Insufficient ventilation, while great for energy consumption, can be an issue when it comes to IAQ. Reused indoor air can be filled with pollutants and allergens.
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters More Than You Think
We often think of pollution as something that only happens outside—but the truth is, the air inside your home can be just as harmful, if not worse. Everyday activities like cooking, cleaning, or even just running your HVAC system can release particles and pollutants into the air. Over time, those can build up—especially in homes that are sealed tight for energy efficiency. Things like pet hair, mold, smoke, and even your furniture can release particles that affect how you breathe, sleep, and feel throughout the day.
Many people don’t realize how much indoor air quality impacts things like energy levels, allergy symptoms, and general comfort. If you’ve ever felt sluggish or congested at home but better when you step outside, your indoor air could be part of the problem.
Learning how air flows through your home—and how to filter it properly—can make a big difference in how you feel, especially during high-pollen months or wildfire season.
How Seasonal Changes Impact Indoor Air Quality in San Diego
While San Diego’s climate is known for being consistent, seasonal shifts can still play a big role in indoor air quality. In the spring, trees, grass, and weeds release high amounts of pollen, which can easily enter your home through open windows or on clothing.
Summer tends to bring hotter, drier weather—perfect conditions for wildfire smoke to travel from surrounding regions and seep into homes. In fall, the arrival of Santa Ana winds stirs up outdoor dust, mold spores, and other irritants.
During the winter months, homeowners tend to seal up their homes for warmth, which can trap indoor pollutants and lead to stale, poorly ventilated air. Each season presents its own air quality challenges, which is why regular maintenance and filtration updates should be a year-round effort.
Simple Steps to Improve IAQ at Home
Here are a few simple but effective actions you can take right now to improve the air inside your home:
- Replace your HVAC filter regularly — ideally every 1–3 months, or more during allergy and wildfire seasons
- Install a HEPA-grade air purifier in high-traffic areas or bedrooms
- Keep windows and doors sealed during high-smoke or high-pollen days
- Vacuum and dust often, especially if you have pets or carpeted floors
- Schedule an HVAC system tune-up to check for issues like blocked ducts, mold, or poor airflow
- Open windows on clean-air days to flush out stale indoor air
- Ask about whole-home IAQ solutions, like UV air purifiers and media filters, to tackle pollutants at the source
How To Prevent Indoor Air Quality Issues
The best ways to prevent indoor air quality issues for your San Diego home is to invest in a proper HEPA air filter. These can be a great way to remove all pollutants from the air in your home. Other ways to prevent these issues include frequent HVAC maintenance, sealing all windows and other ways that pollutants can get in, and maintaining cleanliness in your home.
Overall, it is very important to keep your home safe from IAQ issues that can cause problems to your health. If you ever have any questions about IAQ or need any HVAC maintenance or help, Same Day Heating, Cooling, Plumbing is here for you. Any of our certified HVAC technicians are here to help with anything you may need.
