As a homeowner, your priority is to keep your loved ones healthy and safe. We invest heavily in making our homes energy-efficient, but did you know that modern, well-sealed homes can trap indoor air contaminants, leading to poor air quality? The effects of polluted indoor air can be severe, from allergies and respiratory illnesses to asthma attacks. Here are tips to help you breathe easy and improve indoor air quality in your home.
Easy Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality
1. Invest in Air Purifiers
Air purifiers remove allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. Purifiers come in different sizes and models, from small desktop versions to larger whole-room filters for living areas, bedrooms, and family rooms. Verify the air purifier you choose has a HEPA filter, which traps particles as small as 0.3 microns.
2. Vacuum Frequently
Vacuuming helps remove dust, pollen, pet dander, and dirt accumulating on floors, rugs, and carpets. It also traps pet hair, a significant source of indoor air pollution. Vacuum your carpets, floors, and furniture at least once a week, and change the filter in your vacuum cleaner as the manufacturer recommends.
3. Improve Ventilation to Boost Indoor Air Quality
Improving your home’s ventilation is essential to enhance the quality of air. A good ventilation system allows fresh air to circulate and reduces indoor air contaminants. Boost airflow by opening windows regularly and using fans or the ventilation system in your home.
4. Choose Natural Cleaning Products
Many common cleaning products are composed of chemicals that contribute to poor indoor air quality. Opt for natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice whenever possible. These products are gentle on surfaces, kind to the environment, and work as effectively as conventional cleaning solutions.
5. Reduce Indoor Humidity Levels
High indoor humidity contributes to the growth of mold and mildew, leading to poor air quality. Use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity to between 35 and 50 percent. Use ventilation fans while showering to remove moisture from the bathroom. Promptly address plumbing leaks to prevent water damage, mold, and mildew.
6. Maintain the HVAC System to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Your HVAC system circulates air throughout your home, so make sure it operates efficiently. Maintain the system by changing the air filters regularly, having it professionally serviced yearly, and ensuring the air ducts are clean and debris-free. You’ll extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling system and enjoy better-quality indoor air.
Modern buildings often sacrifice good air circulation to increase energy efficiency. Improve indoor air quality by boosting ventilation and using air purifiers in your living spaces. Your family will breathe easier and suffer fewer allergies at home.
Reliable Real Estate Inspections provides professional home inspections in Hilton Head and the surrounding areas. Contact us to request an appointment for our services.