There are a surprising number of chemicals, gasses and microorganisms in your home that can contribute to poor indoor air quality. Knowing what contributes to poor indoor air quality and what you can do to keep the air in your home clean can help you protect the health and well-being of the people in your household.
Radon
Radon is a radioactive gas that can enter your home through cracks in the basement and openings in the walls. Radon can cause lung cancer. It’s hard to tell if your home has radon, you’ll need to have a professional take a reading to find out.
Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile organic compounds (commonly called VOCs) are human-made chemicals found in products like solvents, cleaning supplies, some pharmaceuticals, and in paint. Volatile organic compounds can cause a variety of symptoms, and may lead to cancer in some cases.
Dust, Mold and Mildew
Every home has dust, mold and mildew – to a certain degree. However, the more of these substances are found in your home, the more at risk you and other members of your household will be. Dust, mold and mildew can contribute to allergies, asthma, breathing problems, and other conditions.
What You Can Do to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
Fortunately, there are many things you can do to improve the indoor air quality in your home. Below are some common things that can help:
Keep a Clean Home
Keeping a clean home can help reduce the amount of dust in the air around the house. Change your bedding frequently. Clean under the beds and in the closet to get rid of dust on the floor. Vacuum your upholstery and clean your ceiling fans. Replace dusters and mop heads regularly, and clean out your vacuum with filters frequently.
Use VOC-Free Paint
One of the sources of VOCs in the house is paint. Fortunately, there are many VOC-free paints that you can use. The next time you’re painting your home, look for VOC-free paints at the home improvement store.
Open Your Windows
Open your windows periodically to let in fresh air. Often, the air outside will be cleaner than the air in your home.
Maintain Your Home’s HVAC System
Your home’s HVAC system is responsible for circulating air through your home. By taking care of your HVAC system, you can maintain cleaner air in your house.
- Regular tune-ups: get a tune-up for your HVAC system once annually. Your HVAC professional will clean the coils and other components to help prevent dust from circulating through your HVAC system.
- Changing the air filter regularly: Change your HVAC air filter at least once every three months, and more often if you’re sensitive to dust and mold.
- Get your ducts cleaned as needed: Air ducts can accumulate dust, which then circulates throughout your house. Have your air ducts cleaned every several years to keep that dust out of your house.
Need to Service Your HVAC System? Call Today
Want to maintain a clean HVAC system? Contact AirGanic, indoor comfort experts, to service your HVAC system and improve your home’s indoor air quality.
If you’re serious about indoor air quality, our “Breathe Easy Package” includes certified indoor air testing, duct sanitizing, air duct cleaning, UV light air purification system installation and more. Want to know more? Call us to schedule a consultation.
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