EFFECTIVE WAYS TO IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY

EFFECTIVE WAYS TO IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY
To improve indoor air quality, limiting exposure to air pollutants such as dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is important. Below is a comprehensive list of strategies that can be used to reduce the presence of harmful particles and improve your home's indoor air quality index.

Buy a custom Indoor Air Purifier from IAP
An air purifier is a portable air cleaner designed to remove airborne contaminants. It works by drawing in air and passing it through filters to trap pollutants. Installing an air purifier can improve indoor air quality, especially in areas with limited natural ventilation.

Change Filters
Remember to change your filters regularly. Replacing the air filters in your home heating and cooling system regularly will enhance airflow and prevent captured particles from circulating. HVAC system filters, such as those in air conditioning units, are typically easy to maintain by yourself. Additionally, it's important to periodically replace the HEPA filters (high-efficiency particulate air filters) in your vacuum cleaner and air purifiers.

Clean bedding regularly
Sheets, pillowcases, and mattress covers harbor dust mites, allergens, and other pollutants, reducing overall air quality. Washing bedding regularly in hot water helps to eliminate contaminants and make your bedroom air cleaner. Using allergen-proof covers further reduces exposure, significantly lowering the potential for respiratory viruses to affect your family. 

Avoid burning anything in your home
Using gas appliances and burning wood, candles, and other materials releases harmful chemicals like carbon monoxide alongside particulate matter. To reduce the risk, consider investing in an indoor air quality monitor. Regular indoor air quality testing is invaluable for providing peace of mind. Additionally, it's wise to consider more energy-efficient heating sources, such as electric heaters and heat pumps, that minimize combustion-related air pollution and health risks.

Vacuum, vacuum, vacuum!
Remember to vacuum regularly to improve air quality by removing particles that collect on floors and carpets. Using a vacuum with a HEPA filter is essential as it effectively captures small particles to prevent them from becoming airborne. Experts suggest vacuuming high-traffic areas every few days and other rooms once a week.

Check outdoor air quality
Many homeowners are surprised to learn how big a role outdoor air plays in indoor air quality. You can quickly and easily test outdoor or indoor air quality by downloading the AirNow mobile app. Created by the Environmental Protection Agency, the app shows current and forecasted air quality index (AQI) readings.

Control humidity levels
It's essential to manage indoor air humidity to create a healthier environment for your household. Dehumidifiers can be used in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms to reduce excess moisture. Similarly, in dry climates or during winter months, humidifiers can help by adding moisture to the air.

Open your windows on good AQI days
Opening windows and doors on days with favorable outdoor air quality index (AQI) readings can help to flush out indoor air pollutants and introduce fresh air, improving ventilation. Natural ventilation allows clean air to circulate through your home, diluting sources of indoor air pollution and reducing their concentration.

Maintain proper ventilation
Insufficient ventilation can lead to a buildup of indoor pollutants from sources like cooking fumes, pet dander, and tobacco smoke. To improve air quality, it's essential to use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove moisture and odors and reduce the risk of mold growth.

Use natural cleaning products such as Kanberra®
Conventional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals. Switching to natural alternatives promotes cleaner indoor air and a healthier home environment for you and your family. Choose "green" or "eco-friendly" cleaning products, as they typically contain plant-based ingredients and fewer synthetic chemicals. 

Keep houseplants
Certain indoor plants have been proven to act as natural air fresheners by absorbing airborne toxins through photosynthesis. Some of the top purifying house plants include peace lilies, chrysanthemums, spider plants, snake plants, and aloe vera. Placing these plants in areas with limited ventilation can significantly improve indoor air quality test readings.

Don't smoke indoors
Smoking poses a significant health risk, especially when it comes to indoor air pollution. Tobacco smoke is an important contributor, releasing harmful pollutants such as tar and carcinogenic chemicals into the air. To maintain healthier air quality inside your home, it's best to smoke outside. This simple action can help keep your living spaces free from poor air quality.