Air quality plays a significant role in promoting a comfortable and healthy indoor living space. Poor indoor air quality, usually characterised by indoor allergens, can cause problems for family members who are sensitive to those allergens, as well as for those with respiratory issues such as asthma. Many things in your home can result in stale indoor air. Heating systems, dusty floors, carpets, furniture and dirty walls are among the many culprits. For many homeowners, opening the windows is usually the trick, but there's more you can do to enhance your home's indoor air quality, especially in winter, where opening windows would not be a practical solution. Below are a few tips to get you started.
1. Add More Ventilation
Many homes have ventilators, but the type of ventilator you use can make all the difference. Trickle vents are some of the most practical solutions to consider. They come with a filter that traps any impurities from the outdoor air coming into your home. Usually, fumes and heat from the cooking appliances in the kitchen are some of the most common sources of indoor air pollution. For this reason, consider adding more of these vents, particularly in your kitchen area. Typically, the vents are added to existing door or window frames. However, some models come mounted on standalone frames in case you prefer to not tamper with your window or door frames.
2. Change/Clean Your AC Air Filters
If you have an air conditioning system, make it a habit to inspect the air filters regularly every month. Remember to clean them if they are dirty or replace them if damaged. Just like the filters on trickle ventilators, the filters on your AC also trap pollen and other impurities from the air coming inside your home, improving its quality.
3. Control Moisture Levels
Dampness in your home will encourage the growth of mould and mildew. Besides the nuisance odours, mould and mildew tend to release spores in the air, which when inhaled, can cause respiratory problems. Therefore, to keep your moisture levels in check, start by fixing all leaks in your home, including leaky ceilings, floors, walls and even leaks under your sink. You can also invest in a dehumidifier, but remember to keep the humidity levels to the recommended settings. If you have indoor plants, make sure you have the right information regarding watering when it comes to frequency and the amount of water to use. Overwatering your plants can increase moisture levels in your home.
Contact your local air quality services today to learn more.
