Industrial smokes and interstate traffic are the few images that spring to your mind anytime you hear about air pollution. However, have you ever thought about indoor air pollution? The air outside your home could be safer than the indoor air. Your indoor air could be harmful or even worse than the air outside your home. With average Americans spending much of their time indoors, indoor air pollution can cause more harm than outdoor air. However, never panic as these preventative measures can help improve and maintain your indoor air quality.
Keep Your Humidity Under Control
Moist and humid conditions breed mildew and mold growth, triggering asthma and allergies. Humid conditions tend to differ depending on your location. In general, homeowners can curb mold and mildew growth and reduce moisture in the air by installing well-placed dehumidifiers. Several types of humidifiers can help create a comfortable living space and maintain consistent humidity levels.
Keep Your Carpets and Rugs Cleaned
Carpets and rugs add comfort to a home. However, their fibers can act as air filters and trap dust and other particles. Regular cleaning of rugs and carpets can help maintain quality indoor air. There are many third-party services that can help you achieve this.
Utilize Kitchen Vents
The kitchen is the source of most indoor air pollutants. For example, a gas stove can release indoor air contaminants such as nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide. Electric burners also produce lower-level pollutants that can absorb into your bloodstream and cause severe illnesses. Therefore, be sure to turn on your kitchen vents or open windows when cooking to filter out the air.
Keep Changing Your Air Filters
A central air conditioner unit can help maintain a perfect temperature level all year round. For example, if you live in Canada, you can find a central air conditioner in Ottawa that can help maintain a perfect temperature in the cold. The AC tends to filter out some common pollutants as it cycles. As a result, the air filter will eventually fill up and stop working, compromising your indoor air quality. Filled-up air filters can also wear the AC unit down and lead to costly repairs down the road. Therefore, be sure to schedule regular air conditioning service, which may include changing air filters. It is a good practice for someone living in a metropolitan prone to allergies and with high pollution levels.
Keep Your Air Ducts in Check
Air ducts help distribute cold and hot air throughout a room, providing a comfortable living space. However, neglected and improperly installed air ducts can distribute contaminants throughout a home. Dander, mold, and dust can build up in your ducts and reduce the overall quality of your indoor air. The ultimate solution is hiring a professional HVAC technician to ensure your ducts circulate clean, fresh air all through.
Invest in Indoor Plants
Plants are natural air filters. Investing in a few indoor plants can help maintain your indoor air quality while enhancing your home’s décor. Large palm trees, lilies, and ferns are a reliable option to keep indoor air contaminants at bay. Also, succulents are an attention-grabbing, low-maintenance category of plants that can spruce up any coffee table or windowsill. Not only are they cheap and easy to maintain, but they can survive for quite a long time with little to no water.
Improve Your Ventilation
Improved ventilation is another proven approach to lowering the concentration of pollutants in your indoor air. Cooling and heating systems rarely bring fresh air inside a home. However, keeping doors and windows wide open when the weather permits can help increase outdoor ventilation. Installing fans in the kitchen and bathroom can also help remove contaminants and increase the ventilation rate. Shading and ventilation can also help control indoor temperature and remove or dilute indoor airborne pollutants.
Homeowners require diligence and preventative measures to maintain their indoor air quality. Changing air filters regularly, keeping carpets and rugs clean, checking air ducts, improving your ventilation, and investing in a few indoor plants are proven ways to maintain quality indoor air. Scheduling an appointment with a professional indoor air quality service can help keep your home comfortable all year round.