When we think about health, safety, and air quality, the first thing that strongly hits us is the causes of air pollution. Air pollution is caused by gases emitted from trucks, cars, factories, dust, and many other factors. The shocking truth is that air pollution in homes and buildings can be more of a risk than outside.
In-house dust, fragrances used in cleaners, radon, formaldehyde, and many others can be dangerous, causing health problems to all family members. Due to the pandemic, people tend to spend more time indoors, which makes allergies caused by in-house air pollution a crucial problem. Children and elderly people who suffer from asthma are greatly affected, and other health issues can rapidly increase in the long run. Read through our article to find ways to ensure your indoor quality is safe and healthy.
Regular Vacuuming
In order to get rid of allergens that have accumulated for decades due to dust, you need to clean up regularly, using a strong vacuum cleaner that has HEPA filters and rotating brushes. A vacuum cleaner that has strong suction will avoid blown-out dust and dirt to be exhausted back. Dust, brominated fire-retardant chemicals, pollen, and pet dander are also accumulated on furniture, carpet edges, and walls. High-traffic areas in our homes tend to be more exposed to indoor air pollution, so make sure you use your vacuum cleaner at least twice a week while going through the same area several times to ensure you are able to get rid of dust and allergens.
Air Duct Cleaning
The contamination, dust, and dirt accumulating in ductwork in indoor places are a major cause of health damage. Molds, debris, and other components found in cooling and heating coils need to be cleaned and removed, therefore, hiring a professional duct cleaning service who will do regular servicing for air ducts will be beneficial to ensure a healthy environment. Cleaning the air duct regularly will help in increasing air quality and fresh air circulation in every room. It will also help in the distribution of hot and cold air throughout your entire indoor space.
Healthy Level of Humidity
Keep your humidity level indoors at 30% since mold and dust will always stick to places with high humidity levels. There are ways to get rid of excess moisture around your house, one example is you can install a dehumidifier during summertime. A healthy humidity level will control allergens effectively. Using air conditioners is also an effective way to reduce humidity levels at a convenient rate. Another tip is to use an exhaust fan or open windows for better ventilation when taking hot baths or cooking.
Eliminate Smoking in Indoor Areas
Smoking is a major factor in indoor contamination and air pollution because cigarettes contain a huge number of fatal chemicals. Smoking is the number one cause of asthma and respiratory infections, especially in infants and children. Smoking spreads gaseous air pollutants which are toxicants, and it is very hard to get rid of these particles once it exists in an indoor area. The solid particles emitted from smoking are transmitted through the air and remain suspended and airborne for days. Health damage caused by smoking is endless and fatal, even healthy people will soon suffer chronic symptoms.
AC Filters
Air conditions are great equipment to keep your indoor temperature at a convenient level throughout the year. During the process of air circulation, air pollutants will fill up into your air conditioner filters, affecting their efficiency and allowing air pollution. Make sure you regularly clean the filters or change them every once in a while. Maintenance is very important and will reduce costly repair over time.
Ventilation
All cooling and heating systems do not promote the required amount of fresh air to enter your indoor areas. Exhaust fans and open windows permit fresh air indoors, especially when there are many activities such as cooking, painting, and planting taking place. Improved ventilation reduces the concentration of air pollutants and increases air quality for a better and healthier environment. Make sure to allow some fresh air to enter your indoor space whenever the weather is convenient.
Indoor Plants
Indoor plants are a perfect solution to reduce air contamination since plants are known for being natural filters. Having indoor plants will boost your energy levels and elevate your mood, they also have a nice touch of decor. Plants will keep your home fresh, breathable, and enhance air quality. There are a variety of indoor plants that you can choose from, although small indoor palms are highly recommended.
Keep the Pollutants Out
One of the great causes of contamination and pollutants in indoor areas is shoes and pets. They tend to take all the chemicals, dust, and dirt into your house. A doormat is a simple way that will eventually keep all unwanted contamination where it should be. Substances like lead dust and pesticides are seriously harmful and damaging to health, especially to children since they tend to touch everything with their hands. Brain, kidney, and nervous system problems can be caused by exposure to lead dust, so keeping your home clean simply means that it’s safe and healthy.
Maintenance of air ducts and other indoor air equipment is crucial in reducing indoor air pollution. Regular vacuuming removes dust and other contaminating substances from being suspended in your furniture, walls, carpets, and floors. Additionally, all equipment used for air circulation does not permit fresh air into your indoors, though a good means of ventilation will increase air quality and a healthy environment. One of the major causes of indoor air pollution is smoking since all the harmful particles will remain airborne for weeks. For all these reasons, children and elderly people are vulnerable and can suffer chronic symptoms, like asthma, respiratory illness, heart conditions, and lung diseases if exposed to air pollution. Keeping indoor areas clean and ventilated increases air quality, which promotes a healthier environment for better well-being. While maintenance and cleaning are some of the best ways to avoid air pollutants, controlling their source is also required. Keeping dust and dirt outside your house is also effective, simple acts like taking your shoes off before entering your house, or even putting a doormat are substantial.
