You might be surprised to learn that your family can be exposed to more unhealthy sources of air pollution inside your own home than from the air outside. Toxic chemical fumes, pet dander, mold and mildew can all lower the quality of the air your family breathes inside your house. Fortunately, you can figure out how to improve indoor air quality by making some easy changes around your house. Other steps might require some investment, but the cost will be worth it for your family’s health and comfort.
Here are a few tips for how to improve indoor air quality:
- Make sure your HVAC ductwork is sealed to prevent entry of air from potentially hazardous spaces like your garage, attic or crawlspace.
- Check your ductwork, basement floor, bathroom walls and other areas that might collect moisture for mold and mildew growth. Check with your HVAC contractor to see that your A/C and heating systems maintain the right humidity levels in your home.
- Vacuum carpets, draperies and furniture frequently to remove dust and pet hair.
- Sweep and mop hard floors to remove dirt. Use door mats to keep from tracking hazardous materials inside.
- Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans to remove noxious odors and to move moist air out of your house. Make sure vents exhaust to the outside, not just into your attic.
- When outside temperatures are pleasant, open windows to allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home.
- Avoid using aerosol air fresheners. If you keep your home clean, air fresheners are not usually necessary.
- Check for radon gas in your living spaces. Radon is a naturally occurring source of radiation that seeps into your basement or crawlspace. It’s a leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. If your radon levels are high, sealing your basement or crawlspace floor and using adequate ventilation can reduce the problem.
- If you take these steps and your indoor air quality is still an issue, consider investing in higher-efficiency filters for your cooling and heating systems, or a dedicated air-cleaning system.
Call us at James Lane for more tips on how to improve indoor air quality. Our expert technicians can test your HVAC systems and recommend ways to make your home healthier and more energy efficient. We have been in business in Wichita Falls and the surrounding region since 1957.
