How many hours a week do you spend inside? It’s likely more time than you realize. Americans spend, on average, 90% of their time indoors.
Inside, concentrations of pollutants are five times higher than they are outside. If you’ve neglected your indoor air quality, you could get sick.
Not sure how to improve indoor air quality to keep your home safe and comfortable? Read on for the tips you need to clear the air!
Remove Air Pollutants
Remove anything from your home that is causing your indoor air quality to degrade. These can include:
- Paint
- Cleaning supplies
- Air fresheners
Schedule time to thoroughly clean your home once a week. Cleaning will remove pollutants like dust, dander, and mold. Otherwise, these air pollutants can spread and compromise your health.
Improve Air Circulation
Open ventilation windows to improve the air circulation throughout your home. Let the fresh air in.
If it’s humid or pollen levels are high, keep the doors and windows closed. You don’t want to invite in additional pollutants.
Update Your Thermostat
Choose a thermostat with a circulating mode. Otherwise, your system will push air that contains contaminants around.
Consult your Peoria HVAC company. They can help you switch to a smart thermostat. You can turn on the fan manually from your phone when you need additional air circulation.
Get a Dehumidifier
Too much moisture in the air can affect your indoor air quality. Maintain humidity levels between 30 to 50% inside.
Take care of your dehumidifier. During the winter, consider using a humidifier when the air is dry.
Switch Your Air Filters
Buy a high-quality air filter that can capture smaller particles. Consult your HVAC technician to choose the right filter. Consider these HVAC upgrades to improve your indoor air quality.
Change your filters every 30 days. If you have a larger capacity filter, switch it out every six months.
Limit Scented Items
The scented items you’re using at home can contribute to poor air quality. These products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Indoor sources of VOCs include:
- Cleaners and disinfectants
- Pesticides
- Air fresheners
- Cosmetics and deodorants
- Floor and carpet products
- Adhesives
- Caulks and sealants
- Varnishers and finishes
- Paints
- Tobacco smoke
- Arts and crafts products
- Gas and wood-burning stoves
Exposure to VOCs can cause headaches and irritate your eyes. Avoid these products when you can.
Get Plants
Add a few air-filtering indoor plants throughout your home. They can add life to your living space and purify the air. They’ll filter the pollutants that originate from inside your home, including VOCs.
Examine Your Air Ducts
Hire an HVAC technician to examine your air ducts. If you notice dust building on the ducts or your furniture, it’s time for a cleaning. Your technician may recommend a ductless heating system.
Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
Breathing in polluted air can harm your physical and mental health. Instead of putting your health at risk, call an HVAC technician. They can improve your home’s indoor air quality using the property equipment.
Lambie Heating and Air Conditioning has helped residents in Peoria since 1962. We pride ourselves on our quality workmanship with a personal touch.
Let our 50-plus years of experience work for you. Contact us today for help improving your home’s air quality.
