IG Sleep Intro

As a parent, you know how important a good night’s rest is for everyone in your home. But did you know that 89 percent of adults and 75 percent of children in the United States keep at least one electronic device in the bedroom? That statistic may not be shocking to you – we’re using more and more devices with screens in daily life. But what may surprise you is the effect that looking at screens before bedtime has on you and your children.

Ideally, adults should get seven to nine hours of sleep a night. But your kids need more hours of sleep. Children younger than 6 years old need more than 10 hours of sleep per night, and teenagers should be getting eight to 10 hours of sleep daily. Looking at devices with screens is one habit that may be making the duration or quality of sleep in your household lacking. Artificial light from screens disrupts natural sleep cycles, and viewing devices with screens before bedtime wakes you up and makes you more alert.

To reduce sleep problems, it is crucial to establish healthy bedtime routines and make certain environmental adjustments. One effective approach is to implement a screen time limit, ensuring that televisions, tablets, computers, and phones are not used at least 30 minutes before bedtime. This will allow their minds to relax, preparing them for a restful night of sleep.

In addition to minimizing screen time, be sure your home’s HVAC system is allowing proper airflow. Schedule regular maintenance to keep your HVAC system running at its best. It is recommended to replace HVAC system filters regularly, ideally every one to three months. By doing so, you can prevent the accumulation of dust, allergens, and other airborne particles, thus creating a cleaner and healthier living space.

Did you know that your HVAC system, such as your air conditioner, can also contribute to polluted indoor air, significantly impacting your sleep and respiratory well-being? Air conditioners can circulate dust, allergens, and mold if filters are dirty or inadequate. Poor air quality, laden with pollutants, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can lead to breathing difficulties, discomfort, and sleep disruptions. High humidity levels may even encourage mold growth, posing further respiratory risks. Inadequate ventilation can result in stuffy rooms and increased CO2 levels, causing restlessness. Owing to these reasons, it is imperative for you to opt for an AC tune up in Springdale, AR, or a similar service in your vicinity.

That being said, air conditioners consist of several crucial components that require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The air filters, often the first line of defense, should be cleaned or replaced regularly to prevent dust and allergens from recirculating, promoting clean indoor air. The evaporator and condenser coils tend to accumulate dirt and debris, hindering heat exchange efficiency; periodic cleaning prevents this issue. Drain lines can become clogged, leading to water leakage and potential mold growth; regular clearing prevents these problems. The blower components, including the fan and motor, require inspection and cleaning to maintain proper airflow. Lastly, refrigerant levels need monitoring; any leaks must be promptly repaired to ensure efficient cooling. Proper maintenance of these components not only enhances cooling performance but also contributes to a healthier indoor environment and prolongs the life of the AC system.

Keep in mind that regular maintenance can help extend the life of your HVAC system, as a clogged or dirty AC unit forces itself to work harder, eventually requiring repair. While it is true that AC units can be repaired when they malfunction or there is a sudden breakdown, regular maintenance can help prevent more serious repairs down the line (this helps in saving money).

By incorporating these little changes and strategies into your family’s sleep routine, you can foster an environment that promotes quality rest, helping your children wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated each morning. Find more ways to improve your family’s sleep quality with the tips in the infographic below.