People often assume that air pollution is limited to the outdoors, however, your indoor air may be more polluted than the air outside. Some pollutants get tracked inside the house, while others come from new furniture, household cleaners, paint, and other sources. Follow these tips for improving air quality indoors.
Improving Air Quality with Clean Floors
Keeping the floors clean is essential for improving air quality indoors. A vacuum with a HEPA filter removes the most allergens. Indoor air pollutants accumulate over time and may include dust mites, pet dander, pollen, VOCs, and other contaminants such as brominated fire-retardant chemicals. On hard floors, mop after vacuuming to remove any remaining dust. Place a floor mat inside of each exterior door to trap particles rather than tracking them into your home.
Healthy Humidity Levels
Mold and dust mites thrive on moisture. An indoor environment that’s lower than 50% humidity is important for improving air quality. A dehumidifier helps to reduce indoor air moisture. Use an exhaust fan or crack a window open when cooking or bathing.
Change Your Filters
A house with a forced-air heating system needs to have its filters changed regularly. Electrostatic filters trap particles so they don’t circulate throughout your home. Improving air quality also includes having ducts cleaned every few years.
Use an Air Purifier for Improving Air Quality
If you suffer from indoor allergies and the source of the problem cannot be removed, such as a pet, an air purifier is a good option. Place units in the household areas that are most often used. Ionic purifiers, in particular, can help in capturing some of the irritants that trigger allergic symptoms. While the allergens are unlikely to be removed completely, they can be reduced.
Let in Fresh Air
Even in cold months, it is helpful to open windows daily to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the home. Turn on the ceiling fans when you open the windows to help distribute the fresh air.
InspectorRx provides home inspection services to Metro Atlanta, including mold and radon testing. Contact us to request an appointment.