Indoor air quality has been a hot topic in this pandemic, following concerns about increasing health risks inside the home. The EPA has issued guidelines for better air quality to lessen the chances of Covid-19 transmission, but homeowners also need to take this a step further with increased home and HVAC cleaning.
Improving ventilation, as well as indoor quality, are said to help respiratory conditions for better family health within the home. Know more about how to get better air inside the home with these expert tips.
Why Indoor Air Poses a Risk as Much as Outside Air
When we think of outside air, we imagine smog or fumes coming out of big factories, but we don’t stop to consider the air we breathe inside our homes. Indoor air is rife with dust, pollen, and molds when places inside are unsanitary or uncleaned. Add chemical vapors from cleaning agents , and indoor air quality suffers.
These are what pollutes indoor air:
– oil, kerosene or gas, wood, coal, and tobacco (combustible sources)
– building materials
– asbestos
– moldy carpets
– processed wood products with varnish
– humidification devices
– housecleaning and personal products
– outdoor sources of pollution such as pesticides and radon
– dust mites
– minuscule traces of human skin flakes
– other biological pollutants: animal dander, pet saliva, household pests
Sometimes when there’s too little outside air coming in, indoor pollution builds up. This impacts the residents’ comfort levels so much that they could get sick. If this kind of indoor air “leaks” out, this might even increase outdoor air pollution.
How to Know If You Have Bad Indoor Air Quality
You’ll know that you have compromised indoor air when you and your family start exhibiting health problems. Some clear up on their own, but when they become persistent, you’ll need to take action. Signs and symptoms include:
– allergies acting up
– constant coughing and wheezing
– bad sinuses
– fatigue, headache
– eye, ear, nose, or throat irritation
– or dizziness
This could mean that you’ll need to step up to locate and address the sources of indoor pollution in your home. In some cases, you’ll have to contact a professional to resolve the problem completely. Extermination and HVAC job costs will depend on the complexity of the situation. You can ask your HVAC contractor if they can also tackle minor mold cleaning as part of their services so that you can save on fees.
Steps for Improving the Air Inside the Home
Improving indoor air is possible – you’ll need to eliminate the toxins and increase ventilation to allow outside air. Here’s what the EPA recommends for cleaner indoor air:
- Regularly maintain your home’s sanitary conditions to lessen rodent and insect infestation.
- Reduce furnishings that can attract dust mites. Clean and disinfect bedding, pillows, curtains, and sheets regularly to lessen traces of human skin flakes.
- Keep pets away from sleeping areas and upholstered furniture. If possible, keep them outdoors instead.
- Take precautions to lessen mold and allergens in your home – have your HVAC cleaned and maintained regularly.
- Increase ventilation by opening windows to let outside air in.
- Reduce exposure to strong chemicals in the home. Quickly aerate areas that have been soaked in strong odors.
- Older homes or those undergoing renovation will have to be professionally assessed for HVAC cleaning. Pay special attention to clogged dry vents, which are said to be major fire hazards.
The main takeaway here is to always address the source of pollution, then remove it, or lessen its impact. Finally, let fresh air in more often so that you dilute your indoor air’s toxin buildup.
Quality Indoor Air Is Possible with the Right Commitment
Staying indoors doesn’t have to be a bad time, you can still enjoy worthwhile activities without worrying about your health. All it takes is a little foresight and follow-through. Your indoor air will be better if you are more conscious of the products and things you own. Make sure that they are easy to clean and maintain.
Pet cleanup or allergens should also be a priority. Always check EPA guidelines to thoroughly identify and eliminate pollutant sources in your home. Don’t be afraid to tackle molds, infestations, or a big cleaning job head on.
In most cases, you can even get the help of a licensed professional to address serious issues with your ventilation. For minor cleaning, have everybody pitch in, so that you can enjoy your time together better. Your family’s health depends on the commitment you make.
On occasion, don’t forget to enjoy outdoor activities, while following health safety protocols. We all need fresh air so that we feel better for longer.
Meta title:Why Indoor Air Quality Matters
meta desc: With more people stuck at home, indoor air quality is a growing concern. Learn how to get better air inside your home.