Good air quality at home has always been vital in minimizing the risk of health concerns like allergic reactions and asthma attacks. However, it becomes of the utmost importance when you spend most of your time indoors during the winter season. Whether or not you’re sensitive to respiratory triggers in your surroundings, following these tips to improve indoor air quality can keep you healthy and cozy in this chilly weather.
Maintain Cleanliness
Keeping a clean house is already a big step in reducing allergens such as dust, pet dander, and mold. Although it’s unlikely that you’ll get rid of them completely, a regular cleaning routine already does a lot in lessening your exposure to them. As a result, you can avoid allergy symptoms and breathe easier in the colder months. Here are some suggestions to improve air cut down on allergens and improve indoor air quality:
- Removing clutter that becomes dust magnets
- Routinely cleaning beddings and drapes
- Using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to clean rugs and carpets at least twice weekly
Ensure Adequate Ventilation
While it’s tempting to stay cooped up at home when the temperature drops, understand that this can greatly increase indoor pollutant levels. By keeping your windows and doors closed, outdoor air can’t enter and carry indoor pollutants outside. You are then more likely to breathe in contaminants with a low air exchange rate. Try to let fresh air in from time to time by opening your windows, even for short periods. Additionally, you can move contaminants out and improve indoor air quality through mechanical means, like exhaust fans and other air-handling systems.
Change Filters
Forced-air heating systems with clogged air filters won’t do a good job trapping dust and airborne irritants. You’ll also deal with decreased system efficiency and contaminants circulating throughout your home. While the general rule is to replace your filters every six months, it’s best to refer to your manufacturer’s instructions. Also, don’t forget to inspect your outdoor vents and keep your ducts clean. By doing these, you’ll make sure your system works properly and avoid dust build-up.
Minimize Sources of Pollution
In many situations, air quality issues arise when unhealthy gases or particles stay in the air. Therefore, another simple way to improve indoor air quality at home is to eliminate the root of the problem. Start by being aware of these sources of pollution or emissions:
- Cigarette smoke
- Fuel-burning appliances
- New carpet or upholstery
- Household cleaning products
- Improperly HVAC systems
- Excess moisture
Take note that fuel-burning can also increase carbon monoxide health risks, so be sure to keep up with regular appliance maintenance. By making simple changes and exerting enough effort to follow indoor air quality solutions, you can do so much in protecting and enhancing your home environment.
Consider Air Quality Products
Fortunately, there are many modern devices that supply households with cleaner, healthier air. For example, air purifiers can effectively sanitize the air to improve indoor air quality. Meanwhile, air cleaners can trap contaminants and prevent them from being circulated inside your home. Both air purifiers and air cleaners even have models that you can attach to your existing HVAC system. If you want to avoid mold, mildew, and bacteria growth in rooms prone to moisture, consider using a dehumidifier.
Improve Indoor Air Quality Today!
Creating a healthier home environment starts with having a clean HVAC system. At OyBoy Heating and Cooling, a skilled and reliable technician will provide you with in-depth air duct cleaning to keep your air free of pollution. Contact us today to schedule a service.
