Ever feel sluggish or congested inside your home? This might shock you, but indoor air quality can be more detrimental than outdoors.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that some contaminant levels are often 2 to 5 times higher than standard outdoor levels. Dust mites, pet dander, mold, and even harmful solvents from cleaning supplies can all add to your home's air pollution. With people spending 90% of their lives in indoor spaces, ensuring the air within our homes is fresh and healthy is essential.
Poor IAQ can result in several health concerns, including allergic reactions, asthma, and cardiovascular illnesses. The good news is that you can create a safer and more comfortable home atmosphere by taking proactive steps.
This blog explores five effective ways to improve indoor air quality, helping you create a healthier home for yourself and your family.
#1. Identify and Eliminate Sources of Indoor Air Pollution
One of the most effective ways to improve IAQ is by reducing indoor pollutants at their source. Common indoor pollutants include cleaning products, paints, and tobacco smoke.
You should opt for earth-friendly cleaning products and low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints to eliminate toxic fumes. Administer chemicals with care and dispose of them per local guidelines. Moreover, regular cleaning can help reduce pollutants like dust and pet dander. Creating a smoke-free home is essential, as tobacco smoke consists of several hazardous ingredients.
Additionally, keeping your home asbestos-free is crucial. Older buildings, especially, have higher chances of containing asbestos. It is a serious concern, as prolonged exposure can cause health issues like lung cancer and mesothelioma.
It also results in a severe lung condition known as asbestosis. TorHoerman Law states the risks of this illness are so extreme that individuals are suing property owners and employers for damages.
If you are worried there is asbestos in your home, avoid disposing of it yourself. Instead, contact a professional for thorough screening and disposal. In prolonged exposure cases causing health issues, an asbestosis lawyer can guide you on potential legal options.
Remember, victims of asbestos exposure may also have grounds for legal action. Experts estimate the average compensation to be between $1 million and $1.5 million.
#2. Implement Advanced Air Filtration Systems
Advanced filtration systems are one of the most effective ways to clean indoor air. They are handy for allergic folks or those with respiratory issues.
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) systems are a top choice. WYNDLY states that these filters can remove 99.97% of aerosol molecules as tiny as 0.3 microns in size. This includes dust, pet allergens, and even some microorganisms. Moreover, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that HEPA air cleaners can reduce SARS-CoV-2 aerosol exposure by at least 60%.
To maximize their effectiveness, the CDC recommends placing these cleaners in the center of the room and as close as possible to the occupants.
Regular check-ups, including disinfecting or switching filters, ensure the air purifier works efficiently. For odors and chemical pollutants, activated carbon filters are your best bet. These filters use a form of processed carbon to block gases and odors through something known as adsorption.
Newer technologies, like photocatalytic oxidation (PCO), are also gaining popularity. PCO filters use UV light and a catalyst to convert noxious particles into harmless gases. While promising, more research is needed to understand their long-term effectiveness. You can also opt for its natural alternative, i.e., houseplants.
Plants aren't just decorative; they can also help purify indoor air. As stated by Good Housekeeping, NASA discovered several plants that effectively detoxify regular indoor polluters. Besides absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, plants also neutralize substantial amounts of benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, ammonia, and trichloroethylene.
Some top air-purifying plants include florist's chrysanthemum, flamingo lilies, peace lilies, parlor palms, and lady palms. Place these plants throughout your home, especially where you spend the most time. Remember, while helpful, plants alone can't solve all indoor air quality issues.
#3. Improve Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is essential to achieving healthy indoor air quality. Without enough ventilation, pollutants can accumulate and affect your health. It helps expel stagnant air and brings in fresh outdoor air.
One effective way to improve ventilation is to use fume extractors in kitchens and bathrooms. These fans help neutralize moisture and stench, trimming the probability of mold formation. Furthermore, opening windows regularly lets in fresh air, especially when the weather and outdoor air quality are good. In addition, ensure the air vents aren't blocked by furniture or curtains.
Consider installing trickle vents on windows to maintain constant fresh airflow. For a more advanced approach, consider mechanical ventilation systems. Heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) offer fresh air while maintaining energy efficiency.
#4. Control Humidity Levels
Finding the right humidity balance is key to indoor air safety. High humidity (>60%) can cause mold growth and dust mites, resulting in respiratory issues, skin blemishes, and itchy eyes.
On the other hand, (<30%) can cause asthma, nose bleeds, dry skin, and flu-like symptoms. Hence, it's crucial to maintain the ideal humidity range between 30% and 50%. The EPA further agrees that the at-home relative humidity should be below 60%. To achieve it, use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements.
In warm climates or during the colder months, a humidifier can help maintain proper moisture levels. Remember to always fix leaks promptly and ensure adequate airflow in bathrooms and kitchens to minimize moisture retention.
People Also Ask
Q1. How Can I Test My Home's Air Quality?
You can test your home's air quality using DIY kits available at hardware or online stores. These kits can detect common pollutants like mold, radon, and VOCs. Consider enlisting the services of a certified indoor air quality inspection specialist for a more accurate analysis.
Q2. What Are the Indicators of Unhealthy Indoor Air Quality?
Headaches, fatigue, allergy symptoms (stuffy nose, itchy eyes), and respiratory problems (coughing, wheezing) are all poor indoor air quality signs. If you're experiencing these issues consistently, consider testing your indoor air quality and visiting your healthcare provider.
Q3. How Often Should I Change My Home's Air Filters?
Change your home's air filters every 1"“3 months, depending on usage and seasonal factors. If you have pets or live in a smog-prone area, you might need to change them more frequently. Regular reconditioning guarantees that your HVAC system runs at its best and maintains good air quality.
Improving indoor airflow is a must for a healthy home environment. However, it doesn't have to be complicated. By implementing these simple solutions, you can create a healthier indoor space for you and your family. Start with small changes, and over time, introduce more robust approaches as needed.
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