How to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
Don’t take out your crying towel yet – in fact, you may not need it, even after learning this bit of a shocker – on average, indoor air is up to five times more polluted than outdoor air.
Which means, whether you show symptoms or not, chances are you’re not doing your body any good by routinely inhaling dust, dirt, pesticides, bacteria, and all sorts of known indoor air pollutants. For those who suffer from allergies or asthma, cleaner air can spell immense relief.
That’s the bad news – but you already knew that. Now for some good news. There’s plenty you can do on your own to clean up your indoor air with very little effort or expense. Let’s examine a few of the more common ways to achieve that goal.
Dust and Vacuum Frequently
One of the most common indoor air pollutants is dust. Once it settles on surfaces and the floor, it recirculates into the air – over time, dust can cause or aggravate allergy problems. Dusting with microfiber cloths is more effective than using a feather duster. Also, vacuum your floors twice a week using a machine with a HEPA filter.
Buy and Nurture Houseplants to Filter out Contaminants
NASA conducted a study in 1989 that proved certain house plants effectively remove bacteria and other toxins from the air. These plants thrive on the very pollutants that can make you ill. Spider plants, Boston ferns, and peace lilies are particularly effective air cleaners.
Take Care When Selecting Cleaning Products
Many retail cleaning products contain harsh, unhealthy chemicals. To play it safe, make your own organic cleaning products using common household ingredients like baking soda and vinegar.
Use Vent Fans
The ventilation fans in your house are there for a reason. In the kitchen, they remove fumes and moisture created by cooking. In the bathroom, they reduce shower-generated humidity.
Clean and Replace Your HVAC Filters
Furnace and air conditioning filters are designed to trap dust, dirt, and other airborne pollutants. By cleaning or and replacing them (as needed) every six to eight weeks, you can substantially improve air quality.
A Whole-House Air Cleaning Solution – from Relief Heating and Cooling, LLC
While every little bit helps, nothing helps improve air quality more than a whole-house air filtration system from Relief Heating and Cooling, LLC. Installed inside your ductwork, our systems trap more than 99% of dust, dirt, bacteria, VOCs, and other pollutants that move through your air ducts when your furnace or AC fan is engaged. That makes for cleaner air, and that makes for a healthier you.
Contact Relief Heating and Cooling, LLC today to schedule a free new system proposal. While we’re at it, we’ll tell you more about other indoor air quality products that might suit you better.
