The air you breathe in your home can impact your health and comfort. Yet, despite our best efforts, it's easy for indoor air quality to decline, leading to pollutants that trigger respiratory issues, allergies, and other health concerns. Fortunately, there are several proactive measures you can take to improve and maintain your home’s air quality. Our home comfort specialists explore effective tips to help you breathe easier and live healthier.
1. Keep your home clear of dust and debris.
Indoor air pollutants clog your HVAC filter and vents, making your system work harder and reducing the quality of your air. You can minimize the buildup of allergens and contaminants with regular cleaning. Vacuum, dust surfaces with a microfiber cloth, and mop floors regularly. Keep pets groomed and consider using a vacuum specifically designed to manage fur and pet dander.
Pro Tip: If you’re installing new flooring, consider using wood or laminate. Carpets can trap dust, pet dander, and other allergens, contributing to poor indoor air quality. Hard surface floors are easier to clean and are less likely to harbor allergens.
2. Clean ceiling fan blades.
Ceiling fans accumulate dust and debris over time, which can, in turn, be circulated throughout the room when your fan is turned on. You can prevent this by wiping down the blades regularly with a damp microfiber cloth. Follow it up with a quick vacuum over the area below the fan to pick up any dust that has fallen to the floor.
3. Maintain your heating and cooling system.
Proper maintenance of your HVAC system is crucial for optimal indoor air quality. Keep up with annual inspections and maintenance, and change filters regularly according to manufacturer recommendations. If you or your family are prone to allergies, you may opt to use a HEPA filter that removes smaller particles from the air.
4. Use dehumidifiers to control moisture levels.
Excessive moisture fosters the growth of mold, bacteria, and other germs, posing risks to those with allergies, respiratory problems, or weakened immune systems. A dehumidifier limits indoor contaminants by reducing moisture and maintaining the proper humidity level, below 50%. We recommend also checking for leaks in your plumbing, roof, or walls, and monitoring your home's humidity with a hygrometer to promote a healthier living environment.
5. Install carbon monoxide detectors.
Many household appliances, including furnaces, fireplaces, and water heaters, can produce carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas. If CO builds up in your home, it can be deadly. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas.
Safety Note: The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, shortness of breath, blurry vision, and feeling dizzy, confused, weak, and nauseated. If you experience any of these symptoms, get fresh air right away, then call 911.
6. Keep indoor air smoke-free.
Smoking indoors is the leading cause of poor indoor air quality. Smoking introduces a host of harmful chemicals and pollutants into the air, which can lead to asthma, respiratory infections, and cancer. If you smoke or vape, make sure to do so outside to prevent toxins from entering your home.
7. Open windows to improve air circulation.
Allowing fresh air to circulate through your home by opening windows can help dilute indoor pollutants and improve air quality. Whenever weather permits, open windows on opposite sides of your home to promote cross ventilation.
Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing Installation, Maintenance, Service, and Repair in NH and MA
By implementing these tips, you can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family. If you have any questions or need assistance with your heating, cooling, or plumbing system, don't hesitate to contact our home comfort specialists.
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