Did you know that the air you breathe at home is two to five times more polluted than the air outdoors? This is because your home is tightly sealed for energy efficiency and climate control. Without proper home maintenance, polluted air can recirculate throughout your house. These harmful contaminants can cause a variety of illnesses, particularly those that target the respiratory system.
In this post, Air Products & Services, a leading provider of professional AC troubleshooting system services, discusses the causes of poor indoor air quality and how you can improve it.
Causes of Poor Indoor Air Quality
It’s important to determine the common causes of poor indoor air quality. Let’s take it room by room, starting with your attic. Your attic is typically an unused part of the house, but it can still host a lot of air pollutants, from dirt to dust mites. If your home was built before the 1980s, you may also be at risk of asbestos exposure.
Bathrooms, meanwhile, are generally known for their moist, humid environments that make it easier for mold and mildew to grow around showers and sinks. To prevent them from spreading further, you must make sure your bathrooms are equipped with exhaust fans for adequate ventilation. To prevent mold spores, remember to clean your bathroom with chemical-free products such as vinegar.
In the bedrooms, be sure to dust off surfaces, fan blades and blinds to eliminate dust mites. Have a professional check the condition of your heating and air conditioning systems as well. If they find signs of damage, they may perform heating or AC repairs. Vacuuming regularly will also remove dust buildup, pet hair and dander.
Finally, while the kitchen area is the heart of many homes, cooking smells, bacteria and other contaminants can linger in the air. Whether you use gas, wood or electricity to cook, air pollution remains present. Keep in mind that natural gas and propane stoves produce toxic chemicals such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.
How to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to combat poor indoor air quality. Here are some tips you should keep in mind:
- Open windows and doors. This is the cheapest and easiest way to improve the air quality in your home. This is vital for letting in fresh air and reaching the desired indoor humidity level. When using chemical-heavy cleaning products, keep rooms well-ventilated at all times.
- Use an air purifier. The ideal air purification system traps and eliminates nearly all pollutants by drawing in dirty air, filtering it and releasing much cleaner air back into the room.
- Clean your house as much as you can. High-quality vacuum cleaners may be costly, but they’re effective at getting rid of dust, pollen and pet dander on surfaces. Be sure to vacuum regularly, and don’t neglect cleaning underneath beds and other furniture. You should also change your bedding weekly and use a damp cloth to clean dirty or dusty surfaces.
- Avoid air fresheners. Air fresheners help mask bad smells, but may emit synthetic chemicals that can affect indoor air quality. Instead, choose naturally fragrant or fragrance-free products.
If you’re looking for a professional HVAC company, get in touch with Air Products & Services! With the help of our expert technicians, rest assured that your indoor air will remain healthy and clean. We also offer heating and air conditioning replacement services and more. Call us today at (818) 989-2030 or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment. We proudly serve homeowners in Tarzana, CA.