Are You Worried About Indoor Air Quality? – Here’s How To Resolve the Issue

Indoor air quality is the air condition inside a building or home. It is a concern because poor air quality leads to health problems, including respiratory infections, headaches, and fatigue.

Are You Worried About Indoor Air Quality- Here’s How To Resolve the Issue (Image Credit Pexels)

You’re more prone to allergic reactions and asthma attacks with poor indoor air quality. As you will discover, mold growth, dampness, and dust mites are some of the most common indoor air quality problems. Easy ways to improve indoor air quality include:

Taking Care Of Your HVAC Unit

A well-maintained HVAC unit improves the quality of your indoor air. 

Have the unit serviced at least once a year and clean or replace the air filter monthly. Remember to clean the vents, registers, and grilles. A Riverdale, NJ technician or one near you can do this for you. They will also inspect the ductwork and make sure there are no leaks. 

When the unit breaks down, it emits more pollutants into the air. The same happens when old and inefficient. Upgrade to a better model to reduce the chances of a breakdown and improve energy efficiency.

Use Air Purifiers

Installing an air purifier, when done right, is one of the best ways to improve indoor air quality. Air purifiers remove contaminants from the air, making it healthier to breathe. 

Go for one that removes various contaminants, including dust, pollen, smoke, and animal dander. Understand the installation, maintenance, and replacement requirements before making a purchase.

Bring In Some Plants

Plants are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also improve indoor air quality. They filter out pollutants and toxins from the air, making it healthier to breathe. They increase humidity, preventing dryness and static electricity. Some of the best plants for improved IAQ ( indoor air quality) include:

  • Peace Lily
  • Golden Pothos
  • Bamboo Palm
  • Scarlet Star
  • English Ivy

Shrubs and trees on your property also improve air quality. Choose the right plants for your area and provide adequate care. They also offer shade, cooling your home and reducing energy costs.

Practice Good Housekeeping

Good housekeeping practices include dusting, vacuuming, and mopping regularly. Clean under furniture and in hard-to-reach places to prevent the build-up of dust and dirt. Keep clutter to a minimum as it accumulates dust.

Remember to clean carpets, drapes, and upholstery as they trap pollutants. Professionally clean at least once a year. To prevent mold growth, declutter and clean closets, storage areas, and basements.

Keep The Humidity In Check

If the air is too dry, it irritates your eyes and skin. It also worsens respiratory problems. On the other hand, too much humidity leads to the growth of mold and mildew. An appropriate humidity level is between 30% and 50%.

Use a hygrometer to check the humidity level and take corrective action if necessary. Invest in a dehumidifier or humidifier to regulate the humidity level in your home.

As you will realize, humidity may be higher in some rooms than in others. This is because of different activities taking place. The kitchen and bathroom, for example, have higher humidity levels than other rooms. Use exhaust fans to remove moisture-rich air and improve indoor air quality.

Reduce The Use Of Toxic Products

Many household cleaners and personal care products contain chemicals that pollute the air. When using them, open the windows and doors to ventilate the area. You’ll find the most harmful chemicals in:

  • Oven cleaners
  • Drain cleaners
  • Floor cleaners
  • Air fresheners
  • Pesticides and herbicides
  • Paint thinners and strippers

Monitor The Temperature And Ventilation

The temperature and ventilation in your home can also affect indoor air quality. High temperatures boost mold and mildew growth. Proper ventilation prevents the build-up of pollutants and improves air quality.

When cooking, cleaning, or using toxic products, open the windows and doors to let in the fresh air. Use exhaust fans to remove contaminated air and moisture. Additionally, keep the temperature at a comfortable level to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

Don’t Smoke Indoors

Smoke from cigarettes, cigars, and pipes contains harmful chemicals that pollute the air. If you must smoke, do it outdoors. Better still, create a designated smoking space away from living areas and ventilate it well.

Take Care of Pest Infestations

Pests like rodents, cockroaches, and insects contaminate food and spread disease. They also worsen asthma and allergies as they pollute the air. To get rid of pests, use traps, baits, and pesticides.

However, be careful when using pesticides as they pollute the air. If possible, use natural pest control methods. When the problem is beyond your control, call in a professional exterminator.

Test For Radon

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can build up to dangerous levels. Radon enters your home through openings in the foundation. It’s a lead cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.

Regularly test for Radon to know if your home has it by buying a kit at your local hardware store or hiring a professional. If the levels are high, take corrective action immediately.

Let Your Family Breathe Easier

These are some things you can do to improve indoor air quality. Some require professional help, but most can be done on your own. Implementing them means your family can breathe easier and enjoy better health. You also protect your home from damage, saving you money in the long run.

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