To improve air quality in your home, consider the following effective strategies:
Improve Ventilation
- Increase outdoor air flow by opening windows and doors when weather permits to dilute indoor pollutants.
- Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove contaminants directly.
- Consider installing mechanical ventilation systems like Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) or Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) for consistent fresh air exchange, especially in tightly sealed homes
Reduce Indoor Pollutants at the Source
- Avoid smoking indoors to prevent harmful secondhand smoke.
- Choose low or zero VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and avoid products with strong chemical fragrances.
- Limit use of aerosol sprays and opt for fragrance-free or natural cleaning products.
- Remove shoes at the door to prevent bringing in dirt, pesticides, and allergens
Maintain Cleanliness
- Regularly vacuum with a HEPA filter vacuum to reduce dust, pollen, and pet dander.
- Mop floors frequently and keep carpets clean to minimize allergens.
- Address mold and mildew by fixing leaks and using dehumidifiers to keep humidity between 30-50%
Use Air Purifiers and Filters
- Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture fine particles like dust, pollen, and mold spores.
- Activated carbon filters help reduce odors and gases such as VOCs.
- Replace HVAC filters regularly and consider filters with a good MERV rating for better air filtration
Additional Tips
- Add indoor plants that can naturally purify air, such as spider plants.
- Use beeswax candles instead of paraffin to avoid releasing petroleum-based pollutants.
- Test your home for radon and install detectors for carbon monoxide to mitigate harmful gases
By combining these approaches-enhancing ventilation, controlling sources of pollution, maintaining cleanliness, and using air purification-you can significantly improve the air quality inside your home, creating a healthier living environment
