Quality Air: How to Reduce Indoor Air Pollution
Did you know that the air you breathe indoors can be even more harmful for your health than outdoor air? According to the EPA, the concentrations of indoor air pollutants can be 2 to 5 times higher than those outside. This is especially troubling because most of us spend around 90% of our days indoors!
Of course, if you’re wondering how to reduce indoor air pollution, don’t stress: it’s an easier task than you might think. All you’ll need to do is reconsider a few aspects of your home or business. Check out the steps below to get started!
Use Less Harmful Chemicals
You’d be surprised at the kinds of indoor air pollutants you can find on the shelves of your home or office. Most homes have an array of harmful chemical cleaners sitting in their cleaning cabinets, some of which can include toxic ingredients like 2-butoxyethanol or formaldehyde. Switching to natural cleansers can be an easy way to keep these dangerous pollutants out of the air.
In addition, you might find that something as simple as a fresh coat of paint can add pollutants.
In fact, paints, varnishes, air fresheners, and even certain types of flooring may have a high VOC content that can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. They can even cause more serious issues like liver, kidney, or nervous system damage with increased exposure.
Check the chemical makeup of paints and other materials before using them, or consider getting your hands on an air scrubber for industrial use if you’ll be doing intensive construction.
Consider Your Ventilation
Once you’ve reduced the number of harmful chemicals in the air, it’s a good idea to check your home’s ventilation.
The first step should always be changing the filters of your furnaces and air conditioners. Don’t reach for just any filter, either: be sure to use the most efficient options to reduce indoor pollutants.
To further improve your indoor air quality, make sure all of the building’s vents and air registers are clean and unobstructed. This helps ensure that your HVAC system can ventilate your home efficiently. Don’t forget to ventilate your gas stove and fireplace when using them!
Get Moisture Levels in Check
You may be surprised to know that indoor moisture can be a source of indoor air pollution. With too much moisture, certain areas of your home or business may be prone to developing mildew, mold, and bacteria.
As a result, it’s important to use fans in any humid areas, including the kitchen and bathroom. Using a dehumidifier can help as well, especially if you live in a humid climate.
Don’t forget to also address any water damage as soon as possible. Allowing water to sit in any area of your property can be an invitation for mold and mildew, which can become airborne and harm your health.
Know How to Reduce Indoor Air Pollution
At the end of the day, knowing how to reduce indoor air pollution is a crucial first step to reducing negative health effects inside. After all, it’s not hard to create a space with cleaner air, provided that you reconsider your property’s chemicals, ventilation, and moisture. With a few simple tweaks, you can start feeling more comfortable about the air you breathe!
Looking for more of the quick guides you need? Our other posts are packed with helpful tips and tricks like these, so be sure to check them out for additional insights.
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