Improving Indoor Air Quality

Small children, asthmatics, and the elderly are especially susceptible to such health problems. And even if you aren’t experiencing symptoms now, studies have shown that repeated exposure to poor quality indoor air can produce effects that may not show up until years later.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency’s report on improving indoor air quality, there are three main ways to improve indoor air quality: (1) Source Control; (2) Improved Ventilation; and (3) Air Cleaners.

Improving Air Quality through Source Control

Lack of proper source control is one of the leading causes of poor indoor air quality. The good news is, however, there are many steps families can take to control the source of indoor air contaminants. Here are some tips to reduce indoor pollutants by controlling them at the source:

• Use non-toxic cleaning supplies. Make your own from natural ingredients. You will not only improve your home’s air quality, you’ll save money in the process.
• Bathe and groom pets regularly. Pet dander is one of the most common indoor air quality enemies.
• Launder large fabrics regularly. Drapes, rugs, and upholstery are a haven for dust mites.
• Reduce your home’s humidity level. This will reduce mold and mildew as well. Fix leaks immediately. Don’t over-water houseplants. Have your air conditioner serviced regularly.
• Keep your home smoke-free. Ask your friends and family who smoke to take it outside.
• Avoid commercial air fresheners. Many contain harmful chemicals that can enhance breathing difficulties. Instead, use homemade air fresheners, such as simmering a pot of cinnamon and cloves or using pure essential oils to scent your home.
• Don’t idle engines near your home. Warm up the car or lawnmower outside the garage.
• Use High Energy Particulate Air (HEPA) filters in your vacuum cleaner. Also, bagless or disposable bags are recommended. When dusting, using microfiber dust cloths can also help.

Improving Air Quality through Ventilation

• Use exhaust fans. When cooking or showering, using the exhaust fan can aid in the reduction of indoor air contaminants, such as grease while cooking, and reduce humidity created by hot showers.
• Use properly ventilated Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) units. Make sure your unit has a proper intake system. Your HVAC system should be serviced and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Brents and Sons Heat & Air services and repairs all brands of HVAC equipment.
• Clean air ducts regularly. Air ducts are the perfect collection zone for indoor air contaminants. Dust mites, pollen, and bacteria are common air duct inhabitants. To ensure your air ducts are cleaned properly, hire a trained professional who has the proper equipment to do the job. Brents and Sons Heat & Air offers a professional air duct cleaning service.

Improving Air Quality through Air Cleaners

• Avoid scams. Be careful and do research or consult a trusted professional before purchasing an air purifier. Some are high quality and collect indoor air pollutants while others don’t.
• Try house plants. There are dozens of house plants that have been proven to purify indoor air naturally, including Aloe Vera, Spider Plants, and Peace Lilies. Check with your local florist for more ideas.

Consult a Professional Air Quality Specialist

If you have concerns about your home’s air quality, contact the professionals at Brents and Sons Heat & Air in Morrilton, Arkansas. Their courteous, trained service staff can assist you in making your home a safer, healthier place for you and your family to enjoy.