Indoor air quality is a subject that should be top of mind for every homeowner. A study published by the Environmental Protection Agency shows the concentration of air pollutants detected indoors can be two to five times higher than outdoors.
This toxic air comes with a number of health risks, which include respiratory and sinus infections, coupled with a higher chance of triggering asthma and allergy attacks.
Homeowners in Fredericksburg, VA can take several steps to maintain a clean and healthy environment at home. Here are four tips that can help you and your family breathe a little more easily.
1. Let in Some Fresh Air
This is the most cost-effective way of increasing your home’s air quality. Opening some windows can do a lot to bring in clean air and let some toxins escape. It’s highly recommended you do so when using appliances, such as a gas stove, which can be a significant source of air pollution.
Let’s not forget proper ventilation can also reduce the moisture in your home, which aids in stopping the spread of mold and mildew. Be sure to use your bathroom fan while bathing to reduce the amount of condensation that builds up.
Those of you who may be worried that opening windows will bring in large amounts of outdoor air pollution may want to look into installing trickle vents or exhaust fans. These devices can have the same effect as open windows while keeping all harmful particles outside.
2. Add More Houseplants
A completely natural way of getting rid of toxic air and adding fresh air is by filling your home with more houseplants.
Trees and plants act as natural air purifiers, and the more you own, the better your air quality will be. Plus, they can add an element of beauty and decor to your home.
If you want to know which plants are best at cleaning up the air, consider the following: Peace Lily, Lady Palm, Bromeliad, Dracaena, Boston Fern, Spider Plant, Jade Plant and Aloe Vera.
3. Toss Your Chemical Cleaners
Many heavy-duty chemical cleaners contain high levels of ammonia, chlorine, formaldehyde, phosphates and petroleum-based compounds. These can be poisonous and irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and lungs.
Most households store gallons of these products, which contribute greatly to poor indoor air quality and even have an effect when they’re not being used.
Good thing most major retailers now stock eco-friendly alternatives, which are better for the environment and won’t contaminate the air in your home. Try replacing your current supplies with these cleaners. Another thing you may want to consider doing is to create cleaning solutions using common household ingredients. These may include water, baking soda, vinegar or lemon juice.
4. Put in a Fresh HVAC Filter
Every central air conditioning and heating system has a filter that captures dust, debris, and other harmful particles before they can be circulated throughout a home.
It’s important to make sure to use a clean filter because once it becomes clogged or dirty, it’s no longer effective in maintaining good air quality. Take a look at the filter every few months to determine whether or not you need a new one.
By following these four simple steps, you can instantly boost the quality of the air you breathe in your home. These simple tips can protect the health of every friend or family member that comes through your door.
