Consider the following tips to improve air quality and create a healthier living environment inside your house!
- Keep the house clean: Regularly clean and dust surfaces to prevent the accumulation of pollutants like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. Keep shoes at the door and use door mats to help prevent tracking things into the house. Reduce clutter to reduce dust colleciton and improve air circulation.
- Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to circulate fresh air and remove indoor air pollutants. Open windows when possible. Cooking can produce pollutants, so use your exhaust hood (which is usually part of the microwave) to remove them. When showering, run the bathroom exhaust fan to remove moisture and prevent mold growth.
- Control humidity: Use a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent mold growth and reduce dust mites.
- Air purifiers and monitors: Invest in an air purifier to pull unwanted particles from the air. Consider using an air quality monitor to keep track of indoor air pollution levels and take appropriate actions.
- Reduce VOCs: Many products release undesirable volatile organic compounds into the air. Use natural, non-toxic cleaning products. Avoid synthetic air fresheners and scented candles. Limit the use of high-VOC products like paints and varnishes. Use natural pest control methods.
- Don’t smoke indoors: Tobacco smoke is an air pollutant and has negative health effects.
- Regularly change filters: Full filters don’t function as intended, so regular replacement of air filters is important.
- Maintain gas appliances: Regularly inspect and maintain gas stoves, heaters, and fireplaces to prevent and address gas leaks.
- Keep plants: Indoor plants can help improve air quality by absorbing certain pollutants and releasing oxygen.
- Maintain your fireplace: If you have a fireplace, make sure it is cleaned at regular intervals to prevent creosote buildup.
- Check for radon: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that may be found in some parts of the country. If your area has radon risk, get your house tested and then address any problems.
- Seal air leaks: Seal gaps around windows, doors, exterior plumbing and electrical fixtures, and other areas where pollutants may enter the house.