Sealing up your home to keep the cold air inside in the summer and the warm air inside in the winter is great for your monthly utility bills, but it can also trap pollutants and allergens inside your house. For anyone with respiratory issues, this trapped indoor air can exacerbate already difficult breathing issues. But there are steps you can take to improve your home’s air quality while still maintaining your energy-efficient home improvements:
De-Clutter And Clean
The simplest and most inexpensive way to improve your home’s indoor air quality is to clean regularly. Vacuuming carpets and rugs once or twice a week, washing sheets and curtains frequently, and keeping floors swept can prevent the accumulation of dust and pet dander. Cutting down on the amount of clutter also helps by reducing the number of places for dust and pet dander to collect. Don’t forget about upholstery, throw pillows, and blankets, where are all places allergens like to adhere to.
Take Care Of Your HVAC System
Your HVAC system is responsible for circulating air through your home multiple times a day. It’s very important that the system with this big job is well-maintained so the air it’s moving is as clean as possible. Remember to change your air filters as often as recommended for your system.
Call in a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean your system. A good rule of thumb is to schedule an appointment before summer begins and again before winter hits. You should also be sure to keep the areas around vents free of debris and clutter to reduce dust and other particles entering the system.
Add An Air Purifier Or Humidifier
An air purifier can help reduce the allergens in your home. Place air purifiers in the most commonly used rooms of your house, or the rooms in which you may have noticed more symptoms, to help combat those allergens. You can also purchase a dehumidifier for damp areas such as basements to reduce the opportunity for mold and mildew to grow.
Bring The Outdoors In
Even in the coldest months of the year, it’s a good idea to open your windows for brief moments to let some fresh air inside. Take advantage of sunny afternoons to throw open a few windows, but remember to turn down the thermostat so it doesn’t run all afternoon to keep up. Another great way to improve your indoor air quality is to add house plants to your decor. Boston ferns, African violets, parlor palms, and spider plants are some great options which are also safe for small children and pets.
It is also important to avoid bringing unnecessary toxins into your home. Look for naturally-scented cleaning products, avoid aerosol sprays, and use lemon slices to give your kitchen that fresh, clean smell. Even something as simple as adding a doormat to your front porch can keep many pollutants from ever entering your house. Your family’s health is very important, and these tips can help you keep their home a safe, comfortable place to breathe easy.
