The effective method of reducing indoor air pollution is done by eliminating or reducing the sources of contamination. Knowing the source of contaminants is the primary thing which has to be looked over before starting the elimination process. As of house indoors is the place where you spend most of your time hence the air quality has to be improved for staying healthy and happy. In this article, we furnish tips for maintaining good indoor air quality in homes.
Measures you need to take for improving the indoor air quality
Sources of pollutants in the indoor and outdoor
- The common indoor pollutants are volatile chemicals, mold, dust mites, fireplaces, building material, asbestos, radon from soil particles, etc.
- Ensure to reduce the volatile chemicals and reduce the mold and dust by thorough maintenance.
Provide proper ventilation
- Always keep the doors and windows open when humidity and temperature levels permit also do not forget to keep check on the outdoor allergens which usually attack during fall and spring seasons.
- Mechanical air systems with proper filtration controls dust levels. Additional air cleaners like ion generators or electrostatic systems can be installed making them am part of your home system.
- Opt for a certified systems which ensure release of minimum ozone.
- Mechanical filters if placed make sure that they are fitted well and changed periodically according to the manufacture instructions.
- Ensure that the fuel burning furnaces, range tops, heaters, fire places, exhaust fans and other appliances are properly vented to the outside well enough from air conditioning intakes, heating and windows ventilation.
Keep things clean
- Buy pillows, bedding, comforters and sheets which are washable such that washing them at least once per week reduces the exposure to allergens like dust mites.
- Consider leaving your foot wear at the door to minimize dirt or dust tracked from outdoors.
- Ensure to place walk off mats at all entrances in your home.
- Dust on the surface can be removed by using high efficiency particulate air vacuum cleaners equipped with micro fiber cloths and disposable bags.
Maintain optimal moisture levels
- Always keep your homes dry by controlling the humidity levels to less than 60% using dehumidifiers is required and ensure to clean them regularly.
- Have a look at the leaks and repair them promptly.
- Keep exhaust fans running in the bathroom while taking shower.
- In case of any water or flood damage take immediate action to remove the water and wet materials.
- Drying up all the furnishings and porous materials within 48 hours prevents the mold from growing on the porous materials.
- House plants can improve the air quality by taking in carbon dioxide and remember not to over water them which usually encourages mold growth.
Minimize pollution caused by chemical pollutants
- Tobacco smoke contains millions of particulates that pollute the indoor environment at high concentrations. Hence avoid smoking indoors.
- Usage of harsh cleaners, strong fragrance cleaners and solvent based cleaners have to be minimized.
- Choose products that are certified by appropriate organizations ensuring low emitting in nature.
- Activities like hobby soldering/gluing, paint stripping, sanding, painting and rock polishing create more pollution hence have to be performed outside home.
Finding the exact source of contaminants and understanding of the problems like insufficient ventilation, humidity control help in maintaining a good environment in your home. Keep a check on the indoor air quality which helps in reducing the damage to equipment, repairs and replacements.