Indoor air pollution is a much bigger problem than most people realize. The air in most buildings is often five times more polluted than outdoor air. Part of the reason for this is that modern buildings are tightly sealed to prevent air leaks and improve energy efficiency. The issue with this is that it results in pollutants and allergens getting trapped inside so that their concentration continually increases. Another issue that contributes to airborne pollution is the huge number of chemicals found in most everything we use. It’s not all doom and gloom though, as this article will show you a number of simple things you can do that will greatly improve your home’s air quality so you, your family and your pets stay healthier.
Always Use the Exhaust Hood When Cooking
Cooking is a major source of indoor air pollution. Oils and fats always give off various pollutants when heated. Pots and pans with a non-stick coating also release toxins into the air when they get too hot. Turning on your exhaust fan or hood when cooking anything on the stove is an easy way to overcome these issues as the fan will draw most of the airborne pollutants outside so they don’t linger in the air.
Upgrade to a More Efficient HVAC Air Filter
Standard HVAC air filters aren’t all that efficient and mostly filter out much larger particles like dust, lint and hair. Opting for a higher-rated, more efficient filter will improve your home’s air quality by also filtering out smaller particles like pollen, mold spores, exhaust fumes and chemical contaminants.
Opt for All-Natural Cleaning Products Whenever Possible
Chemical cleaning products also directly contribute to poor indoor air quality as they give off lots of different toxins and pollutants. This is another issue that you can easily avoid by using all-natural cleaning products as much as possible. White vinegar is also a good choice for cleaning countertops and mopping floors as it has strong antibacterial properties and doesn’t give off harmful fumes, unlike most all-purpose cleaning products.
Look for VOC-Free Furnishings
Volatile organic compounds or VOCs are the biggest contributors to indoor air quality, and they are found in the majority of furniture and building products. Formaldehyde and other VOCs are used in many manufacturing processes, and the chemicals that these products contain are continually “off-gassed” or released into the air for years in many cases. While some VOCs will always be present in a home since they are given off by so many things, it’s still a good idea to look for VOC-free mattresses, couches and other furnishings.
Upgrade Your HVAC System
The most effective way to overcome issues with indoor air pollution and improve your home’s air quality is to upgrade your HVAC system. Air purifiers and air filtration systems are a great choice as they will remove more than 90% of allergens, pollutants and chemical contaminants from the air being circulated around the home by your HVAC system. This makes them far more effective than even the highest-rated residential air filters.
HVAC UV lights are also a great option that can help keep your family healthy by eliminating viruses, bacteria and mold spores from your home’s air. When these microorganisms come into contact with ultraviolet light, their DNA is altered so that they can no longer spread, reproduce or cause infection.
Controlling the humidity level in your home is also important for preventing the air quality from potentially worsening. High humidity often leads to condensation forming in various parts of the home including inside the air ducts, which can lead to mold forming. Once mold starts to grow, it will release a huge amount of spores into the air so that you then constantly breathe them in. Mold spores are a major allergen and can lead to coughing, sneezing and wheezing. Some types of mold are also toxic and can lead to various health issues if you’re continually exposed to the spores. The best way to prevent condensation issues and reduce the chances of mold growth in the home is to install a whole-house dehumidifier. This type of unit won’t just help with air quality, but it can also make your air conditioning system more effective and more energy efficient since AC always works better when there is less moisture in the air.
If you’re looking for options for improving your home’s air quality, the EPA-certified technicians at AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning are here to help. We can evaluate your home to find any issues that contribute to poor air quality and determine what solutions are best for overcoming these issues. We install air purifiers, UV lights, dehumidifiers and a range of other IAQ units, and we also offer professional heating and air conditioning services for customers throughout the Huntingdon Valley area. For more information or to schedule an air quality consultation, give us a call today.
