When we think of air pollution we think of large factories, car exhausts, and murky air. Although all of these factors attribute to air pollution outside, there are many pollutants that are also introduced inside of our homes.
The average American spends 87% of their life indoors. Given the constant exposure, it is important that you take steps to improve the air quality in your home. Keep reading to learn more about improving your indoor air quality.
Indoor Air Pollution
Studies have shown that inside air has 2 to 5 times more pollutants than outdoors. The reduction in air quality in your home can be from daily activities or things you have no control over, like the thinning of the ozone layer. It is important to be aware of the pollutants in your home and take steps to improve your air quality.
Common Forms of Indoor Pollutants
Indoor air pollution can come in the form of particulates, microbial pollutants, or gases. Exposure to pollutants can have adverse effects on your lung and heart health.
Indoor particulate matter is solid or liquid particles that have been mixed into the air. Microbial pollutants grow indoors where there is sufficient moisture. Gases can linger in the air from the use of aerosol products or even cooking.
Methods to Improve the Air Quality in Your Home
There are many ways to protect your home against air pollutants in Edmond or Oklahoma City and improve your air quality. Through the following practices, you can reduce your home’s pollutants and breathe healthier.
Regular HVAC Maintenance
Pollutants can circulate through your home’s heating and cooling system is important to invest in routine maintenance for your HVAC unit. Proper maintenance can help to reduce the pollutants by ensuring all filtration systems are working properly and making sure no leaks are present.
Changing Filters
Air conditioning units are designed to help cycle and cool your home. They do this while circulating the air through a series of filters, which can catch many air pollutants. To ensure that it is operating at maximum efficiency, you should replace your AC filters every two to three months.
Your vacuum cleaner and drying machine come with filters to catch lint and other particulates that can pollute the air of your home. In order to reduce the number of particulates you are introducing to your home, be sure to also regularly change appliance filters.
Checking Your Vents and Ducts
Air vents and ducts are used to move heated or cooled air throughout your home. Over time, vents and ducts can produce dust or mold. By having regular maintenance on ducts, you can ensure that you are circulating clean and fresh air around your home.
Control the Humidity in Your Home
Humid conditions can further stimulate the growth of microbial pollutants, such as mold or mildew. Oklahoma City maintains an average relative humidity between 50-60% year-round. By using dehumidifiers in your home, you can reduce the amount of moisture in the air to minimize the growth of these pollutants.
Use Indoor Plants to Freshen the Air
Plants are a great natural tool to help filter the air. Through photosynthesis, plants can convert carbon dioxide to fresh oxygen. Plants can also scrub the air of certain chemical compounds found in cleaning products, such as formaldehyde and benzene.
By growing indoor plants, you can make your home feel more welcoming while improving the air quality.
Breathe Easy Indoors
Ensuring your home’s air quality should be a top priority. It is important to monitor the air quality in your area, whether you are in Edmond or Oklahoma City.
By implementing these strategies, you can control common indoor pollutants and reduce your risk for health concerns.
Connect with us to improve the air quality and breathe easy indoors.