Air quality at home - All you need to know

Spread the love

As every homeowner knows one vital way to manage the health and well being at home is to manage the air quality at home. Read on to learn our top tips and all you need to know.

What is important to know about air quality at home

The air quality of your home is just as important as the air quality outside. Poor indoor air quality can cause various health issues, including respiratory problems, allergies, headaches, and fatigue. According to the EPA, indoor air pollution can be 2-5 times higher than outdoor levels. So, what should you be aware of when it comes to air quality in your home? Let’s take a look.

Air pollutants in the home

Many different types of pollutants can be present in your home. These include dust particles, dander from pets, mold spores, chemicals from cleaning products and paint, and even radon gas. These pollutants can contribute to poor air quality in your home and cause adverse health effects if not addressed.

Testing for air quality

The first step to improving the air quality in your home is testing it. This involves using an indoor air quality monitor to measure the levels of various pollutants present in the air so that you know exactly which ones are causing issues. It’s also important to test for radon gas since long-term exposure to high levels of this odorless gas can lead to serious health risks such as lung cancer. You may also consider hiring a professional inspector if you suspect additional contamination sources, such as asbestos or lead paint.

Improving air quality in your home

Improve your ventilation

That means opening windows frequently, using fans, or investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter. This will help to keep the air circulating and reduce allergens like dust and dander from building up. These days, various air purifiers and filters on the market can help improve indoor air quality. Alternatively, you could invest in a ventilation system with an exhaust fan or even a whole-home air filtration system. These systems can help to reduce the number of pollutants and allergens circulating in your home’s air.

Maintain your HVAC system

These pieces of equipment play a huge role in the air quality of your home. So it is crucial to keep them maintained and serviced regularly. This will ensure that they are working correctly and prevent dust particles from circulating in your home. Common problems that can arise in your HVAC system include; a clogged air filter, leaking ducts, or a blocked evaporator coil. You should call a professional to look into any of these cases. You’ll not wonder how do HVAC split systems work with expert help. A good HVAC contractor will be able to inspect your system, identify any potential problems and provide you with a maintenance plan. This will help improve your home’s air quality and reduce health risks associated with poor indoor air quality.

Use plants to purify the air

Houseplants are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also act as natural air purifiers. They clean the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere – something we all need for healthy breathing. In addition to absorbing carbon dioxide, certain plants can also absorb and filter other pollutants from the air, such as formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia. A few of these plants include; English ivy, peace lilies, ferns, orchids, and aloe vera. The number of plants you need will depend on the size of your living space.

Reduce chemical exposure

Chemicals and pollutants can be found in most household cleaning products, so it’s essential to stay aware of the products you buy and use. You can start by looking for green or eco-friendly options when it comes to cleaning supplies. Avoid using synthetic fragrances like air fresheners and scented candles, as these can contain a lot of pollutants and chemicals. Another easy way to reduce chemical exposure is dusting with a damp cloth instead of using aerosol sprays.

Focus on the outdoor area

Pollutants like smoke, vehicle exhaust, and pesticides can easily drift into your home from the outside. So it is vital to be aware of the sources of pollution in your area and take steps to reduce them. For example, if you’re near a busy street or an industrial area, consider investing in air filters to capture larger particles such as dust and smoke. You could also plant trees or shrubs around your home, as they can act as a natural barrier and filter out pollutants before they enter the house. Try to minimize the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. They can easily be carried indoors by wind or tracked in on your shoes, so it is best to avoid them as much as possible. Avoid smoking around the house, and keep windows closed if possible.

Final thoughts on how to manage air quality at home

The bottom line is that good indoor air quality starts with knowledge and awareness. Testing your home’s air will give you an accurate picture of what pollutants are present so that you can take effective steps toward improving it. These simple measures can help protect the health of everyone living inside your household while ensuring that their breathing environment remains clean and safe.

Air quality at home – All you need to know