11 Tips to Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality

You may be surprised to know that indoor air quality can be much worse than outdoor air quality in terms of allergens and irritants. This is particularly true during the Denver winter, when windows are rarely opened and homes are sealed up tight against the wind and cold. Throughout the year, your HVAC system – furnace, air conditioner and air cleaner — plays an important role in maintaining your indoor air quality.

1. Change your HVAC filter regularly

Not only does this maintain the health of your system, clean filters help maintain your family’s health by eliminating dust, dirt and debris from the air.

2. Add a whole home air cleaner to your furnace and air conditioner

Air cleaners that work in conjunction with your HVAC system offer several benefits, including cleaner air throughout your home, less dust, and reduced allergy, cold and other respiratory symptoms.

3. Clean regularly to reduce allergens and irritants

All houses collect dust. To minimize the effects of allergens and other irritants, dust and vacuum often. Be sure to clean those areas you don’t often see, like ceiling fans and the tops of bookshelves, cabinets and the refrigerator. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.

4. Use non-toxic & unscented cleaning products

To avoid harmful fumes use non-aerosol, non-toxic, unscented cleaning products

5. Bathe and groom your pet regularly

We love our pets, but their fur and dander can quickly spread around our homes. Regular grooming can reduce shedding and the spread of dust and dirt that our pets bring indoors. Don’t forget to clean your pet’s bed as well.

6. Open the windows to let in fresh air

Fresh air is important for combating indoor air pollution. Even in winter, it’s a good idea to open windows from time to time, and use ceiling fans to keep air circulating.

7. Opt for hard-surface floors over carpet, install blinds instead of curtains

Carpets and curtains attract and hold onto dust. They are also harder to clean.

8. Add houseplants to help fight air pollution

Plants are nature’s air cleaners. Many require little maintenance, and they are an easy way to add a splash of color to your home while improving your environment.

9. Minimize moisture and ensure proper ventilation in damp areas

Excessive moisture is not a huge problem in Colorado, but in damp, humid rooms, such as bathrooms, it can cause irritating mold. Be sure these areas are well ventilated.

10. Avoid smoking, candles and air fresheners

Cigarette smoke, candles and air fresheners all contain potentially hazardous chemicals that can trigger or exacerbate health problems. Avoid smoking indoors and choose candles and air fresheners that are natural and nontoxic.

11. Remove your shoes before entering the house

Shoes track in an amazing amount of dirt, debris and even chemicals. Taking them off at the door is an easy way to keep harmful pollutants out of your home.

Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is another excellent way to ensure the quality of your indoor air. To schedule a visit, or to learn more about whole home air cleaners, contact IAQ today!