While we know about the effects of outdoor air pollution, have you ever wondered about the air in your home? Several factors contribute to poor indoor air quality, from inadequate ventilation to using air fresheners and other chemicals. The pollutants inside your home can cause health problems. To breathe easier, follow these tips for improving indoor air quality.
Replace your HVAC Filters
The HVAC system maintains a comfortable temperature for your home throughout the year. While it’s working, the filters are attracting dust, mold, pollen, and pet dander, which helps to improve indoor air quality.
However, the air filters in your unit become clogged over time, resulting in poorly filtered air that recirculates pollutants in your home. Replace your filters monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer of your HVAC system.
Improving Indoor Air Quality with Plants
One of the more natural ways of cleaning the air in your home is by using indoor plants. Indoor plants like ferns and lilies are excellent air purifiers. They also provide oxygen and improve the aesthetic of your home. Be sure to learn how to properly care for the plants and avoid overwatering them, which can cause mold.
Clean your Home Regularly
A tidy home is essential to improving indoor air quality. Clean your home at least twice weekly. Start by vacuuming your rugs, sofas, and mattresses, especially if you have a pet.
Wash bedding, pet pillows and blankets, and drapery on a regular basis. Mop floors using natural cleaning products or a steam mop. Most importantly, establish a cleaning routine to regularly remove dust and pollutants from surfaces.
Control Humidity When Improving Indoor Air Quality
Mold and mildew thrive in humid environments. Both can cause respiratory problems and allergy-like symptoms. To counter this, install dehumidifiers in your home to reduce the moisture in the air. You can also install a whole-home dehumidifier that runs along with your HVAC system.
Use Ventilation Fans
Cooking is a common cause of indoor pollution. Whether you use a gas stove or electric burner, cooking produces harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide. To prevent this, use the ventilation fan during and after cooking. Open a window if you don’t have a fan in your range hood or if the kitchen becomes too steamy or humid.
Improving Indoor Air Quality: Open Windows
Ample circulation is important to boost the quality of air in your home. Opening windows allows fresh air in and stale air out. Even during the cooler months, open the windows just a bit for 10-15 minutes each day. Even a few minutes will make a difference in the air you breathe.
In-Depth 360 Home Inspection Services serves the Puget Sound area with home inspections and energy audits. Contact us to schedule an appointment in Southwest Washington.