For many, air pollution has to do with the air outside their homes or offices. However, the fact is air pollutions isn’t just an outside thing. In fact, the air in the home can be more polluted than the air outside. It is possible for the air in your home to be polluted by radon, lead, formaldehyde and some toxic chemicals used in standard all-purpose cleaning agents.
If most people ventilated their houses frequently, that would probably help get rid of some of these pollutants. But seeing as most people are more interested in keeping their homes tightly shut, many of these dangerous pollutants get trapped in the home. Some of these pollutants get in the house through air and pipe leakages, while others are tracked in by both humans and pets.
In case you didn’t know, indoor air quality is both directly and indirectly linked to a number of ailments like lung cancer and mesothelioma –blame the radon and asbestos for this – and triggers frequent allergies like asthma in children and adults. So, what can you do to make sure that the indoor air quality in your home is consistently good and as allergen or poison free as possible?
1. Vacuum Frequently
The floors in the home are usually home to many toxins and allergens. A quick inspection of your floors will most likely show you that there are lots of allergens and toxic residue. To reduce the amount of allergens like animal dander, dust mites, pollen, and toxic substances like brominated fire retardant chemical residues on the floors, you need to vacuum the home frequently. Use a vacuum with HEPA filter preferably and vacuum high traffic areas in the home multiple times.
2. Mop the Floors at Least Once a Week
You probably do this already, but may be doing it just once a month or once in two weeks. Try mopping the floors more frequently. This will help prevent any dust, animal dander and dirt buildup. You don’t necessarily have to use any soap or detergent. Just mopping with water is sure to get rid of the dust quite easily. Try using a microfiber mop though as they are often more effective at capturing and eliminating more dirt.
3. Upgrade and Tune Your AC
If your AC hasn’t been tuned or cleaned recently, you need to do that as soon as possible. That way, you don’t get to inhale dust or dirt trapped in the AC. Besides, a clean AC is a better functioning one. And if you’re using one of those old ACs, it might be time for you to consider an upgrade, particularly to one with the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 16—21. These are more energy efficient and function optimally all the time.
4. Watch out for Mold
There’s mold in most homes. The only difference between the not-so-visible ones and those that are very obvious is that the latter has gotten out of hand while the former is under control. Do the smart thing instead and control the mold. Use dehumidifiers in the summer and check your basement and under the sink occasionally for excess moisture. Ensure that your sinks flow frequently and try to wash and dry up potentially wet places often.
5. Use Air Purifiers
Make use of air purifiers frequently. These are effective in clearing out residual dust particles, smog, aerosols and pollen and also deodorize the air in the home. Sure, they might be a tad pricey, but they are totally worth the expense. When you get them, use them at least once a week. Also, be sure to ventilate the house as frequently as possible. Replace the blinds with drapes and allow some fresh air in the home.
This article was written by Matthew Hall. As a sufferer of allergies himself, Matthew is always aware of air quality. To ensure his home is always free of allergens and has only the highest quality air, he depends on his home air purifer and he highly recommends FacemyerAC.com. Matthew is also a professional writer and enjoys blogging in his free time. To view more of his work, connect with him on Google+.