Maintaining the Air Quality in Your Home

Breathing Easier in Your Home

Maintaining indoor air quality is an essential but often overlooked component of living happily in your home. It’s an invisible problem, but the costs can add up— from high energy bills to unpleasant health issues.

Tips to improve the indoor air quality of your home

Venting: Many homes have become so energy efficient that they’re also good at trapping dust and other pollutants. Appropriate ventilation is an essential aspect of indoor air quality. Getting airflow through your house will remove stagnant air. Rooms to beware of include venting bathrooms, kitchens, and fireplaces directly outside. 

Alarms: Alarms are also helpful for keeping an eye on what you’re breathing. Smoke alarms are necessary for home safety, but carbon monoxide alarms are vital to keeping a silent killer at bay. Finally, periodic radon testing is a good idea. Radon is a radioactive gas that is odorless, colorless, and tasteless. It is a known contributor to lung cancer. You can only know how much is in your home by performing a test. 

Replacing Air Filters: Of course, one of the most neglected home maintenance chores is the regular replacement of air filters. Changing air filters is an easy fix and is typically among the most manageable tasks a homeowner can do. Replacing filters increases HVAC efficiency, extends your heating and cooling system’s life, and lowers energy bills.

Air Purifier: If you are susceptible to allergies from dust or even your family pet, an air purifier will help. Consider a dehumidifier in damp areas, such as a basement. A dehumidifier will prevent mold growth.

Keeping your Flooring Clean: Cleaning your floor may seem simple; however, it will significantly improve your air quality. Vacuum both carpets and area rugs once or twice a week using a HEPA filter. A HEPA filter will eliminate allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. Keep the dust out by putting large floor mats at every door. This barrier will reduce the pesticides, pollutants, and dirt tracked into your home.

Clean Bedding: Bedding, drapes, couches, etc., will attract dust and allergens. Regular cleanings will increase your air quality. 

It’s also vital to try to store industrial chemicals such as pesticides, paints, and harsh cleaners outside of the home’s habitable areas. 

If you’d like to breathe easier in your home, follow up with these minor home maintenance tasks and inexpensive tools. High air quality is also an excellent selling quality for your home! If you’re thinking about listing soon, get in touch with me today:  Liz Norvelle (928) 458-4025

Resources For You: 

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/easy-ways-you-can-improve-indoor-air-quality

https://interestingengineering.com/11-easy-tips-to-improve-the-indoor-air-quality-in-your-home