We spend as much as 90% of our time indoors — yet most homeowners rarely stop to think about the indoor air quality in their homes. In a city like Toronto, where homes are often sealed tightly for energy efficiency, airborne pollutants can accumulate quickly.

Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) isn’t just a minor inconvenience — it can lead to allergies, breathing issues, and even damage to your home over time. At 1st Air, we’ve spent over 25 years helping homeowners across Toronto and the GTA improve the air they breathe every day.

Not sure if your home’s air is as clean as it should be? Here are 7 signs that your indoor air quality may need attention — and what you can do about it.

1. You’re Sneezing or Wheezing Indoors — But Not Outside

If allergy or asthma symptoms seem to get worse when you’re at home, your air may be circulating common irritants like dust, mold spores, pet dander, or pollen.

💡 What to do: Start by upgrading your HVAC filter. For a more lasting solution, consider installing a whole-home air purifier to remove allergens from the air.

2. There’s a Persistent Musty Smell

Does your home have a stale or damp odor that lingers no matter how much you clean or air it out? This often signals hidden mold, mildew, or poor ventilation — all of which are signs of poor indoor air quality.

💡 What to do: Book an IAQ test and have your system inspected for moisture buildup or hidden mold.

3. You’ve Noticed Mold or Damp Spots

Seeing mold on walls, ceilings, or around air vents? That’s a big red flag. Mold thrives in homes with excess humidity and poor air circulation.

💡 What to do: Find and fix the moisture source immediately. A whole-home dehumidifier can also help prevent future growth.

4. There’s Dust Everywhere — Even After Cleaning

If you feel like you’re constantly cleaning, only to see dust collect again within hours, your HVAC system might be spreading unfiltered air. Dirty ductwork is another likely culprit.

💡 What to do: Replace your filters regularly and schedule a professional duct cleaning to clear out built-up debris.

5. The Air Feels Too Dry or Too Humid

Indoor air that’s either overly dry in winter or overly humid in summer can lead to discomfort, cracked furniture, or respiratory irritation.

💡 What to do: Balance your humidity with a dedicated whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier. The ideal indoor range is 30–50% humidity.

6. You Get Headaches or Feel Tired at Home

Frequent headaches, dizziness, or fatigue that seem to fade when you leave the house could be a sign of VOC buildup or even low-level carbon monoxide exposure.

💡 What to do: Improve your ventilation and ensure carbon monoxide detectors are installed and working properly.

7. Rooms Feel Stuffy or Have Poor Airflow

Do certain rooms feel harder to breathe in or stay at a different temperature than the rest of your home? Your system may have airflow problems or blocked ducts — and that means stale, polluted air.

💡 What to do: Have an HVAC professional assess your system for blockages or imbalances in air distribution.

Let’s Improve Your Indoor Air Quality — Together

Your home should be a place where you breathe easy. If you’re seeing any of the signs above, it’s time to take action. At 1st Air, we offer:

• Comprehensive indoor air quality testing
• Advanced air purification systems
• Humidity control solutions
• Expert HVAC inspections and upgrades

We’ve been trusted by homeowners across Toronto and the GTA for over two decades. Let us help you create a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment for your family.

📞 Ready to breathe cleaner air? Contact us today to schedule your IAQ assessment.