Many people search for ways to “improve indoor air quality” and end up buying an air purifier first. In our guides, we show how to think in a simple priority order: remove the source, ventilate with outdoor air, and filter what remains. This approach often costs less long-term and provides more consistent results than relying on a single device.

Ventilation options explained (and when each makes sense)

Different buildings need different strategies depending on climate, occupancy, and existing HVAC equipment. Our ventilation guides compare the most common solutions, including what to expect for installation and maintenance.

• Exhaust ventilation: bathroom fans and kitchen range hoods that remove moisture and pollutants at the source
• Supply ventilation: controlled outdoor air delivery to reduce stagnation and improve comfort
• Balanced ventilation: coordinated supply + exhaust for more predictable air exchange
• HRV/ERV systems: energy-efficient fresh air with heat/energy recovery (great for tighter homes)

Filtration and IAQ: choosing filters that actually help

Filters are not one-size-fits-all. Our IAQ guides break down how to select a filter based on your goals (allergens, dust, smoke) and your HVAC system’s capabilities.

• MERV ratings: how to pick a level that improves particle capture without restricting airflow
• HEPA filtration: when portable HEPA units are useful and how to size them by room
• Maintenance schedules: how often to change filters and what happens when you don’t

Humidity, mold prevention, and comfort

Humidity is one of the most overlooked drivers of poor indoor air quality. Our guides explain how to keep indoor humidity in a healthier range, how to prevent condensation, and how to reduce the risk of mold—especially in basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and older homes.

• How to spot hidden moisture problems (beyond visible mold)
• Dehumidifier vs. ventilation: what to use and when
• Why sealing air leaks and improving ventilation should be planned together

IAQ checklists you can use right away

To make improvements easier, many of our articles include step-by-step checklists such as:

• Bathroom fan performance checks (and ducting best practices)
• Kitchen ventilation tips to reduce cooking smoke and odors
• Bedroom airflow and filtration suggestions for better sleep comfort
• Seasonal IAQ maintenance: spring allergens, summer humidity, wildfire smoke, winter ventilation

Use these ventilation and indoor air quality guides to compare solutions, avoid common mistakes, and build a plan that matches your building and budget. If you’re looking for a clearer path to healthier indoor air—fresh air where it matters, filtration that fits your system, and moisture control that prevents mold—start with the guide that matches your biggest concern and work through the recommendations one step at a time.