When you think of air pollution, you probably think of the smog, smoke, and dust outdoors. However, the air inside your home can also be a problem even if it looks clean and clear. Because you spend more time at home than anywhere else, poor indoor air quality affects your comfort and health. Invisible contaminants like pet dander, mold spores, and chemicals can cause moisture damage, set off allergies, worsen respiratory conditions, and more.
Some subtle signs that your home has suboptimal indoor air quality include coughing, sneezing, dampness, and musty or unpleasant odors. If you want to breathe easier, try these seven tips to improve the indoor air quality in your home.
1. Reduce Indoor Contaminants
One of the simplest ways to improve your indoor air quality is to reduce the number of contaminants that enter the air in the first place. Reducing these irritants also makes equipment like your HVAC, air purifier, or humidifier more efficient and extends the life of your air filters.
Here are some of the most common indoor irritants to watch for:
- Dust and dirt
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Mold and mildew
- Volatile organic compounds
- Tobacco smoke
You can reduce dust and dirt with regular cleaning and vacuuming. Pay extra attention to soft surfaces like carpets, rugs, and furniture. If pollen is a problem, keep windows and doors closed when levels are high. Keep pets groomed and bathed to reduce the amount of dander they shed. Avoid chemical contaminants by using more natural cleaning products instead of harsh chemicals, and limit the use of air fresheners and scented candles.
2. Consider an Air Purifier
One of the most effective ways to improve indoor air quality is by investing in an air purifier. An air purifier with a HEPA filter can remove almost 98% of contaminants down to 0.3 microns in size. Smoke, pollen, dust, mold spores, and pet dander are no match for a high-quality air purifier. The most effective air purifiers can even remove volatile organic compounds, which are gases emitted from household cleaners and other products that can cause respiratory harm.
When choosing an air purifier, make sure it’s the right size for the space you plan to use it in. For optimal performance, place it where high concentrations of allergens collect. Kitchens and pet areas are good places to put your air purifier, or install it near your HVAC intake to reduce contaminants throughout your home. Remember to replace the filters as recommended by the manufacturer to keep your air purifier performing optimally.
3. Make Use of Fans
Fans are a simple solution that can have a big impact on indoor air quality. Ceiling fans are common in homes, but many homeowners don’t realize they can do more than provide a cool breeze. Fans give your indoor air quality a boost by circulating fresh air throughout your home and preventing dust buildup. Remember to keep your fans clean and switch the direction of the blades between seasons. A counterclockwise spin cools the air while a clockwise spin helps keep your home warmer in winter.
If your home suffers from poor air quality due to inadequate ventilation, you may need a whole-house fan to keep fresh air coming in and stale air moving out. A whole-house fan is typically installed on the highest level of a home. These fans not only provide ventilation but also help reduce summer energy bills by keeping your home cooler.
4. Keep Humidity Under Control
Contaminants aren’t the only things that impact indoor air quality. Optimal humidity levels are essential but often overlooked when it comes to indoor air quality. Excessive humidity causes musty odors and creates a friendly environment for mold and mildew growth. Low humidity, on the other hand, leads to dry air that can exacerbate respiratory and skin problems.
Because humidity levels are largely associated with environmental factors beyond the homeowner’s control, you may need a humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels. A humidifier puts moisture into the air. You can choose from small, portable models or a whole-house humidifier. A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air and is essential in wet or tropical climates. Homes in temperate climates may need both a humidifier for the dry winter months and a dehumidifier for muggy summers.
5. Don’t Neglect HVAC Maintenance
Is your HVAC compromising your indoor air quality? If you’ve been neglecting routine maintenance, your HVAC could be harboring all kinds of contaminants that blow into your home every time it comes on. Air filters are your first line of defense when it comes to keeping indoor air clean, and clogged, dirty filters can’t do their job properly. Ductwork is another source of dust and debris that can end up in the air, and HVAC components, such as coils and fans, can also collect dust, dander, and other allergens.
At Home Comfort Services, we help homeowners in Grand Junction and the surrounding areas maintain optimal indoor air quality with our seasonal maintenance and duct-cleaning services. A seasonal tune-up not only keeps your equipment running smoothly but also prevents problems like debris buildup, clogs, and mold or mildew growth. We also offer a maintenance agreement with benefits that include complimentary tune-ups, discounts, and appointments scheduled within 24 hours.
6. Improve Indoor Ventilation
Stale air is poor-quality air, which is why ventilation is a key component of indoor air quality. Take advantage of natural ventilation by opening your windows for a few minutes every day to let in fresh air. Ensure proper ventilation in enclosed areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens, by installing and maintaining exhaust fans. Exhaust fans should always vent to the outdoors rather than the home.
7. Add Some Greenery
You don’t need the latest technology to purify your air. Many plant species help remove contaminants from the air and release fresh, clean oxygen in return. Adding some greenery is a simple and affordable way to boost your indoor air quality. Some common houseplants that improve indoor air quality include spider plants, snake plants, English ivy, rubber plants, and weeping fig. If you have pets or small children, make sure any plants you choose are safe for curious chewers.
Your Indoor Air Quality Experts
Is it time to call a professional to help with your indoor air quality? At Home Comfort Services, we offer many solutions for your indoor air quality problems. Our experts are here to review your options, from air purifiers to whole-house fans. We also offer other services that help keep your indoor air cleaner, including duct cleaning, sealing, and seasonal maintenance. If your indoor air issues are caused by an outdated HVAC, we can set you up with a new unit.
If you’re ready for cleaner, healthier indoor air, Home Comfort Services is your trusted local source for indoor air quality products and services. Call us today to learn about your options and schedule your service.
