Indoor air quality should be a top priority for any homeowner. This is especially true for homes with young children, elderly or individuals with compromised immune systems. Pollutants and even dangerous pathogens can linger for years, often times contributing to all sorts of respiratory ailments. Pollen, pet dander, chemical particles, and dust mites are just a few of the typical contributors to indoor pollution. Mold spores can easily find their way into parts of a home that are not often cleaned and multiply rapidly. Gas particles from underground radon leaks can find their way into these same hidden spaces, potentially causing major health concerns down the road.
Tips to Improve Indoor Air Quality
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Avoid Indoor Smoking.
The number one way to avoid indoor air concerns is to keep the house clean and tidy, paying special attention to pet areas. Perhaps even more important than this is not smoking indoors. Lighting a cigarette releases over 4,000 chemicals into the air, lodging themselves in furniture, ventilation systems, and other areas. The harmful exposure can last for years after the fact.
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Dust & Vacuum.
Dust often and avoid leaving foods out. Vacuuming weekly is best. Make sure to have a vacuum with a specialized HEPA filter attached and reach all corners of carpets and rugs or other areas where dust, allergens, and pollutants can accumulate. Don’t forget to vacuum deep in the crevasses of upholstered furniture. Mopping and even washing walls are good habits to keep in mind.
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Use Natural Cleaners.
You may want to consider introducing or adding a number of plants to your home as they act as a natural purifier. Beeswax candles, salt lamps, and charcoal are also considered natural remedies to improve air quality. When cleaning, consider products that are organic or less harsh on the environment. Harsh cleaning chemicals and ammonia can find their way into air ducts and ventilation systems causing prolonged exposure leading to chronic respiratory conditions.
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Use a Dehumidifier.
During humid times of year consider a dehumidifier. A good rule of thumb is to keep humidity at around 30-50% and run the A/C during hot summer days. Dust mites and mold thrive in moist, humid environments and reproduce quickly under these conditions.
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Ventilation is key.
Ceiling fans are a great way to not only keep a room fresh but not allow dust or other contaminants to settle. Keeps windows and screen doors open as much as possible always allowing for cross-circulation. This is a rather simple and obvious solution but fresh air is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy environment.
Professional Air Duct Cleaning
Routine cleanings are necessary measures for preventative care, but every few years a professional inspection and cleaning are necessary to remove all indoor pollutants. Green Home technicians will use specialized air duct vacuums and cleaning equipment that reaches deep into the air ducts. This will remove and dispose of all dust build up, pollutants, and even harmful pathogens. Duct and furnace filters are also assessed and replaced as necessary.
With continued care and proper upkeep, your home will remain a safe place and allergen-free.