Tips for Keeping Your Home Air Healthy

Indoor air quality is essential for good health and well-being. Poor indoor air quality can lead to health problems such as allergies, respiratory infections, and asthma. Many things can affect the air quality in your home, such as dust, smoke, and chemicals. With the right knowledge, you can take steps to improve the air quality in your home. This blog post outlines tips to keep your home air healthy.

1. Keep the Home Clean and Reduce Clutter

Dust and clutter can lead to poor air quality, contributing to breathing difficulties, allergies, and other health problems. Cleaning your home regularly and reducing clutter can help improve air quality. Use natural cleaning products, such as vinegar and baking soda, to minimize harsh chemicals that can release pollutants into the air.

2. Use Natural Cleaning Products to Cut Harsh Chemicals

Harsh chemicals from cleaning products can impact air quality by releasing harmful toxins. Consider natural cleaning products that do not contain harmful chemicals, such as essential oils, which are great for cleaning and have numerous benefits such as antifungal and antiseptic properties.

3. Open Windows and Doors to Increase Airflow and Reduce Humidity

Proper ventilation can improve indoor air quality, removing pollutants and decreasing the amount of moisture inside the home. Open windows and doors regularly to increase airflow. Use fans to promote airflow in areas where windows are not available. Avoid increasing humidity by using dehumidifiers and correcting water leaks.

4. Use an Air Purifier to Remove Pollutants and Particles

Air purifiers work by drawing air through a filter, capturing pollutants, smoke, and other particles that can compromise the air quality in your home. Consider the size of the room that needs an air purifier, the type of filter it uses, and the noise level. A HEPA filter can remove most airborne particles. 

5. Have HVAC System Inspected to Identify Problems and Improve Performance

HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems can impact indoor air quality directly. For example, they can circulate airborne pollutants throughout the home. Regular inspections and maintenance of your HVAC system can help identify problems that may contribute to indoor air problems and improve system performance.

6. Regularly Change Air Filters in HVAC Systems

Air filters in HVAC systems play a vital role in maintaining healthy indoor air quality. Dirty filters increase the levels of airborne pollutants in the home, reducing the flow of air and causing more wear and tear on the equipment. Change air filters every one to three months to ensure efficient system operations.

7. Control Humidity Levels to Prevent Bacteria Growth

High levels of humidity contribute to the growth of bacteria, which can affect indoor air quality. Limit sources of indoor moisture, such as leaks, and maintain an average humidity level of 30-60% to prevent the growth of microorganisms. Use a hygrometer to measure indoor humidity levels accurately.

8. Avoid Smoking in the Home Due to Residual Pollutants

Smoking poses significant risks to indoor air quality. Smoke from cigarettes can leave residual pollutants in the home, including harmful chemicals and particulates. Quitting smoking or avoiding smoking in the home is the best way to eliminate a substantial source of indoor air pollution.

9. Use Natural Air Fresheners instead of Synthetic Fragrances

Synthetic fragrances can harm indoor air quality, emitting volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Consider natural alternatives such as essential oils, plants, or citrus fruit to bring freshness to the air without the risks of synthetic fragrances.

10. Test for Radon to Detect Harmful Levels of Radiation

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can accumulate in homes, leading to health risks such as lung cancer. Test for radon to detect harmful levels of this gas in your home. Radon test kits are affordable and widely available at hardware stores.

11. Ensure Proper Ventilation with Exhaust Fans/Systems and Regular HVAC Service Appointments

Proper ventilation is essential for healthy indoor air quality. Ensure proper ventilation by installing exhaust fans in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Ensure regular HVAC service appointments, where professionals will recommend ventilation modifications to improve air quality.

Maintaining healthy air quality in the home is critical for overall health and well-being. This post outlines tips for keeping your indoor air quality healthy, such as minimizing harsh chemicals, regular cleaning and dusting, decreasing humidity levels, and using air purifiers and natural air fresheners. Implementing these tips can lead to improved air quality, better breathing, and fewer health problems.