Air quality can have a big impact on your health. Since you spend most of your time indoors, taking steps to improve your air quality can have a big impact on your quality of life. Whether you’re protecting your family from allergies, wildfire smoke, or seasonal illnesses, here are six ways you can improve the air quality in your Hayden home.

Cut down on air pollutants

The first step to improving air quality is removing anything that degrades your indoor air quality. Some common pollutants include: secondhand smoke and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde – these are common in the glues used in composite wood and many types of furniture, and certain cleaning products like glass cleaners, bleach, cleaning, sprays, or air fresheners. Reduce your exposure by opting for nontoxic products.

Keep it clean

The next line of defense is a strong offense: establish regular cleaning routines to reduce dust, pollen, mold, and pet dander. Regular cleaning is an effective preventative measure to reduce allergens and irritants that are common in our homes. Be sure to include cleaning any air ducts or vents in your home since dust can build up over time in those areas.

Let fresh air in

Allowing fresh air to flow through your home is an easy and inexpensive way to improve your air. Make it a habit to open the windows and doors to ventilate your rooms. It may sound counter-intuitive to do so during the winter but it’s important for letting fresh air in and cycling out pollutants. You should also run your kitchen exhaust fan or open a window while cooking, especially if you have a gas stove.

Invest in an air purifier

A quality air purifier is an effective way to clean the air. Consider getting an air purifier that uses a high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filter since they typically do a better job at removing harmful particles like VOCs, smoke, mold spores, excess carbon dioxide, and allergens like pet dander.

Regularly change filters

The filters in your HVAC system and furnace are meant to keep dust and dirt from getting into your house. When the filters get clogged, the air in your home will begin to suffer. Most manufacturers recommend changing your filters every 90 days or so. However, you may need to change them more frequently due to local environmental factors, if you have pets, or have a family member with allergies. Visually inspecting your filter monthly will help you stay on top of things.

Reduce dampness

Damp conditions can lead to respiratory issues like coughing, wheezing, and asthma attacks. Check your home for damp areas and fix any issues immediately. You can reduce dampness by using a dehumidifier, turning on the exhaust fan while showering, and fixing water damage as soon as possible to reduce the chances of mold or bacteria growth.

Improving your home’s indoor air quality will create a comfortable and safe environment for your family.

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