If you’re like most Americans, you spend a majority of your time indoors, whether you’re sleeping, working, or enjoying some downtime. What you might not realize is that your indoor air could be two to five times more polluted than the air outside your home, even if you live in a city!
Preserving your indoor air quality at home can be an essential part of staying healthy. Here are just a few ways to obtain cleaner indoor air throughout the year.
1. Buy a high-efficiency air filter for your HVAC system.
Air filters with a higher efficiency rating can capture more particles and allergens in the air, which can improve your indoor air quality. Additionally, changing your air filter routinely can also help to improve your indoor air quality.
Pro Tip: Just be sure that you never install a filter with a higher efficiency rating than your HAC system is designed to handle – otherwise, you may end up with airflow issues. Always first consult your system’s owner’s manual, the manufacturer, or an HVAC professional.
2. Open your windows.
Fresh air is an easy, cheap, and effective way to improve indoor air quality. When the weather allows, open your windows and let in some natural breeze. This will help circulate indoor air and get rid of any pollutants that have built up over time. If possible, open windows or doors on different walls of a room or opposite ends of your home. This will create a cross-breeze that will maximize airflow through your living space.
3. Vacuum and dust regularly.
One of the best ways to reduce indoor air pollutants is by keeping your home clean. Routinely vacuum and dust to get rid of any dirt, dust mites, or pet dander that might cause issues for those with allergies or asthma.
If you suffer from severe allergies, you may want to upgrade to a “HEPA” vacuum cleaner, which can do a superior job of sucking up allergens and keeping them contained. These appliances contain a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter. HEPA vacuum cleaners must be specially sealed to keep dust and other particles from escaping.
4. Avoid smoking indoors.
Secondhand smoke is a leading indoor air pollutant, and that pollution can build up in a home over time. If you don’t smoke but have houseguests who do, you can politely ask them to smoke outside.
5. Limit the use of harsh chemicals.
Household cleaners, aerosol air fresheners, paints, and other chemical products can release harmful fumes that can worsen indoor air quality. When possible, try to use natural or less-toxic alternatives.
6. Equip your home with germicidal UV lamps.
These UV lights work in tandem with your HVAC system to destroy germs in the air as it circulates through your indoor HVAC unit. This technology can destroy numerous viruses, bacteria, and mold spores and help prevent your household from getting sick.
7. Use the exhaust fan in your kitchen.
Pollutants from gas ranges, ovens, and stoves can accumulate in your kitchen over time. For this reason, it’s essential to run your kitchen’s exhaust fan when using these appliances. The exhaust fan can also help reduce excess moisture in your kitchen that might otherwise lead to mold growth.
Indoor Air Quality Services in Marblehead
These are just a few tips for improving the indoor air quality in your home. For more information and ideas, be sure to consult our Marblehead indoor air quality specialists at Bartlett & Steadman. We’re committed to helping you keep your family healthy and helping you breathe easier all year long! Call our friendly team today at (781) 365-5828.