Did you know that some air pollutants are 2-5 times more common indoors than outdoors? This means that when you sleep or spend time at home, you could be breathing in harmful pollutants. Thankfully, there are all sorts of ways to make sure your air quality is healthy. Try some of these tips today to start breathing better.
One of the most common and most harmful substances for your air is cigarette smoke, which releases hazardous air pollutants like formaldehyde and ammonia into the air. If you can stop smoking altogether, with the help of medication or a support group, that’s your best bet. Otherwise, try to smoke only outdoors, at least ten feet from your windows.
Dust mites, mold, pet dander, and other natural air pollutants can cause respiratory problems and aggravate allergies. Be sure to clean your home regularly--even the hard-to-reach corners, where dust and hair build!
Your HVAC filters, especially for your heater or furnace, can’t do their job unless they’re replaced properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which usually recommend replacement every 90 days, or more frequently with pets or allergies.
Not sure if you have decent air filters? Install a HEPA filter, which is an air quality system that removes at least 99.7% of particles in the air. For people with allergies or poor ventilation, a HEPA filter is a lifesaver.
Get some plants. Indoor plants can work wonders for indoor air quality. They’re natural air filters, and also produce the oxygen we breathe. Plus, they look great in any home!
Many homes have high levels of radon, formaldehyde, or other pollutants--even if they’ve done everything right. These chemicals can enter a cracked foundation of a home through soil or into the air through the building materials. Contact us today to quickly and easily test your home’s pollutant levels.
VOCs are “volatile organic compounds,” which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. Though they also occur naturally, in high concentrations they can be extremely harmful. VOCs are found in many aerosols, pesticides, paints, and more. Limit your VOC usage whenever possible to keep your air cleaner.
The ideal humidity of a home is 30-50% humidity. This is humid enough to keep your body and houseplants happy, but dry enough to avoid mold. If you don’t live in a place with good humidity, it may be worth it to get a humidifier to keep your air quality strong.
Try to keep dust, particles, pet dander, and more in a vacuum instead of in your lungs. Also be sure to dump the waste regularly, and keep the vacuum filter clean. Along with automatic air filters through your HVAC system, this can be a huge help.
Open the windows! Finally, a little fresh air can do a world of good! If weather permits, open a few windows in your home to improve ventilation and circulation. And if it gets too warm, we also provide great air conditioners.
Contact us over at NexGen today to install air filters, get your pollutants tested, or for other air quality services. We would love to help you and your family start breathing a little easier.
