While many people assume that indoor air quality is superior to polluted air outdoors, the opposite can be true. Pollution is generated indoors from cooking and cleaning activities, or it can enter the home from outdoors. Since most homes are well-sealed, indoor air quality can worsen over time because the pollutants are trapped. Here are a few easy ways to improve home indoor air quality.
Why You Need to Improve Home Indoor Air Quality
Exposure to air pollution in the home can be detrimental to your health. Initially, you might notice that your allergies worsen. Some pollutants cause more serious health issues. Having healthier, cleaner air in your home will reduce your exposure to irritants and pollutants. Use these tips to improve your home indoor air quality.
1. Ventilate Your Home
Pollutants enter your home from the outdoors and are also generated indoors. Good ventilation is essential because it increases airflow and removes pollutants. Ventilation fans may already be in place in your bathrooms and over your range in the kitchen. Consider investing in more fans for better results and remember to use your ventilation fans regularly.
2. Clean Your Home Thoughtfully
Cleaning your home is an effective way to remove pollutants that have accumulated on floors, countertops, and other surfaces. However, when you clean your home using harsh chemical cleaning products, you are introducing harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into your living space. Instead, purchase natural, non-toxic cleaning solutions at most stores or make your own to save money. Recipes for safe homemade cleaning products are available online.
3. Purify the Air
The purpose of a home air purifier is to filter out pollutants so that the air is cleaner and healthier. Using a purifier regularly is helpful in improving home indoor air quality. Keep in mind that the quality of air purifiers and the square footage that they can accommodate varies. Read reviews to choose the best air purifier for your space.
4. Schedule Indoor Air Quality Tests
Some pollutants are more difficult to get rid of, so it is important to know which pollutants are the biggest problem in your home. For instance, if mold spores are detected in your air, you should locate the source. Schedule indoor air quality tests periodically to determine if other steps are needed to improve home indoor air quality.
Air quality in your home can have substantial effects on your health. These steps to improve home indoor air quality will help to keep your indoor air clean.
Precision Home Inspectors provides indoor air quality testing to Eastern Virginia. Contact us to schedule any of our services.