7 Ways of Improving Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality is an important and often overlooked part of your daily life. Poor indoor air quality can lead to various health issues, such as allergies, asthma, and headaches. Fortunately, there are many ways to improve the air quality in your home. The following are some simple steps to ensure that the air in your home is healthy and comfortable.
1. Keep Humidity Levels Low
High humidity levels can offer a favorable breeding ground for mold and mildew, which could be hazardous to your health. Invest in a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels in check or use fans to promote air circulation in high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and basements. You can also reduce humidity levels by taking shorter showers and using exhaust fans in the bathroom to help remove moisture from the air.
2. Clean Regularly
Regularly cleaning your home can help reduce dust, pet dander, and other irritants contributing to poor indoor air quality. Vacuum carpets, mop hard surfaces, and dust with a damp cloth or microfiber cloth at least once a week.
Also, pay special attention to areas that collect dust, such as baseboards, windowsills, and ceiling fans. Additionally, keep pets out of bedrooms if possible. Regular cleaning also includes changing air filters, as dirty filters can contribute to poor indoor air quality. Keep your furnace filter clean and changed regularly, at least once every 90 days, or more frequently if needed.
3. Open the Windows
Opening your windows on days when there is a breeze helps promote air circulation and reduce indoor air pollution. Make sure to close them during high pollution or when it is excessively hot or cold outside. Doing this can help bring fresh air while removing stale, polluted air inside the home.
Running an air purifier can help reduce airborne pollutants and improve indoor air quality for people living in heavily polluted areas. With the vast selection of air purifiers available, it’s essential to do your homework and identify the one that would be most beneficial to you.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
As much as cleaning is important to maintain good indoor air quality, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning. Many household cleaners are made with chemical compounds that can be hazardous to your health if inhaled or ingested. Use natural cleaning products such as baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils to reduce chemical exposure and keep the air in your home clean and safe.
Another way to reduce chemical exposure is to avoid using synthetic air fresheners and fragrances, as these can also contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be hazardous to your health. Instead, opt for natural alternatives such as essential oil or reed diffusers. This way, you can still enjoy pleasant scents without the risk of toxic chemicals.
5. Use Indoor Plants
Certain varieties of plants are known for their natural ability to absorb toxins from the air, such as formaldehyde and benzene. The best varieties for this purpose include English ivy, spider plants, peace lilies, and bamboo palms.
Keeping these types of plants in your home can help reduce indoor air pollution and provide you with some beautiful greenery at the same time. When selecting a plant for your home, ensure you know its light requirements and how much water it needs to stay healthy and continue doing its job.
6. Test Your Air Quality
If you still have issues with indoor air quality after taking all these steps, consider testing your air for any pollutants or contaminants. You can purchase an at-home test kit or hire a professional to do the testing and provide a detailed report on the results.
Harmful gases like radon, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can cause serious health issues. It is important to test for these gases as they can be present in homes without any visible signs. Testing your air quality will help you determine the best way to improve it, whether by using an air purifier or installing ventilation systems.
7. Install an Air Conditioner
Air conditioners are not only great for cooling your home, but they can also help improve indoor air quality. An air conditioner with a built-in filter will trap dust and other airborne particles before they get into the room. This means you will breathe cleaner, fresher air while keeping your home cool.
Most modern air conditioners have an energy-efficient rating to let you know how much power they use. Look for an Energy Star-rated unit to ensure you get the best efficiency without sacrificing performance or indoor air quality. If you need air conditioner installation, repair, or even maintenance in Olathe or the Great Kansas City area, look to Mike Bryant Heating & Cooling. We provide top-notch air conditioner services to ensure our customers enjoy clean and comfortable air quality in their homes.
Conclusion
Improving your home’s indoor air quality can greatly impact your health and well-being. Following the above tips ensures that you breathe clean, fresh air in your home. There are many ways to improve your home’s air quality, from investing in an air purifier to installing an energy-efficient air conditioner.
At Mike Bryant Heating & Cooling, we are dedicated to helping you create a safe and comfortable environment in your home. We offer professional heating and air conditioning services, including installation, maintenance, and repairs. Contact us today for more information about our services and how we can help you improve your home’s indoor air quality.
