Air quality is not something most people commonly think of when it comes to the indoors, but indoor air pollution can be just as bad as outdoor air pollution. As most people spend the majority of their lives indoors, this type of air pollution can be quite harmful. Some common forms or indoor air contaminants include:
-
- Mold spores
- Pollen
- Contaminants from household products
- Contaminants from building materials (asbestos, formaldehyde, etc.)
- Radon
- Carbon Monoxide
So, what are some ways that you can improve the air quality of your home?
The most effective means if decreasing indoor air contaminants is to properly and regularly clean air ducts, vents, and filters. Other tips include controlling humidity and cleaning carpets regularly.
We will discuss each of these tips in more detail below. You can maintain yours and your family’s health by following these simple tips.
Clean Air Ducts
Air ducts are the mechanism that distributes warm and cold air to each room in a house, and they often accumulate dust, dander, mold spores, and other pollutants which are then also distributed to each room. To prevent the accumulation of mold and reduce allergens and other contaminates, homeowners should use an air duct cleaning service on a regular basis, every 1 -3 years depending on your lifestyle.
Do you smoke? Do you open your windows regularly? Have pets? Carpet? All these are factors that contribute to the state of your air ducts. Cleaning air ducts regularly also reduces the need for repair and prolongs air duct lifespan.
Clean Vents and Filters
Vents and filters are extremely important when it comes to keeping air clean. The purpose of these are to regulate air flow and remove harmful contaminants such as dust, dander, smoke, and gases from the air. If vents and filters acquire buildup or become clogged, they are no longer able to do their job and contaminants are released into the air. This is why it is important to regularly maintain and clean vents and filters.
Control Humidity
Humidity increases the chance of mold and mildew growth, the spores of which can be inhaled and absorbed into skin. Mold and mildew are sneaky creatures and may not be in easily visible areas of the home. They may be in walls, under floorboards, or hiding under appliances. By controlling the humidity in your home with a dehumidifier and cleaning liquid spills quickly, you can decrease the chance of mold growth and protect your family from its harm.
Clean Carpets Regularly
Carpets may feel good to bare feet on cold mornings and increase comfort when you are rolling around with your children on the floor, but they also may be doing more harm than good. Carpet fibers are perfect for trapping contaminants such as dander and dust. These contaminants are then released into the air and inhaled. Cleaning carpets and rugs at least once a week will reduce the chance of them releasing contaminants into the air.
Related Questions
Is There a Way to Reduce Air Pollution Naturally?
Besides cleaning, there are a couple of options to improve air quality naturally. One option is to put indoor plants around your home. Plants are a good source of natural filtration as they pull contaminants out of the air. They are also great for sprucing up home décor. The second option is to open windows. Open windows help to circulate fresh air throughout the home. This method should be used with caution, though, as open windows may also let in pollen and pollution in certain areas.
How Do I Know If the Air in My House Is Clean?
It is not always easy to know if indoor air is polluted, but there are some signs. Polluted air can often result in allergies, coughing, or infections in the lung. It can also cause air inconsistencies that can be felt throughout the building, such as fluctuations in temperature and moisture levels. If you suspect that your home may have polluted air, you can also contact a professional who will run some tests to confirm.
The Importance of Clean Air Ducts
Indoor air pollutants are extremely common and often go untreated, leading to harmful health conditions and poor home comfort. By following the tips outlined above, you can keep the air in your home in quality shape.
The cleaning experts at Unique Air Duct Cleaning in Livonia are ready to help you breathe better, cleaner air in your home and business. We do this with the most advanced air duct cleaning system available. It has two functions: to dislodge any contaminants and dust within your system, and air wash these materials out of the home. We also provide dryer vent cleaning services with minimal disruption to your schedule. Call for a Free Estimate and see why we have been #1 choice in metro Detroit for more than 25 years!