Many factors influence the health and quality of your indoor air. While lighting a candle to create a pleasant aroma is nice, it’s not enough to improve air quality. The fumes from the candle might even add to indoor pollution. Discover five specific ways pollution affects your indoor air quality and how you can overcome them.
1. Kitchen Fumes
Many people consider the kitchen the heart of their home. When it’s time to prepare meals and gather around the dinner table, the impact of pollutants there is rarely discussed. Cooking releases many pollutants such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. This is especially true if you use a gas stove. Whether you have an electric or gas stove, it’s important to be mindful of how you prepare meals. Cooking methods like grilling or broiling can release pollutants that harm your lungs.
Fortunately, there are effective ways to reduce indoor pollutants in the kitchen. Start by increasing ventilation. Use the fan in the hood over the range, and turn it on while cooking. If you have nearby windows, open them to allow fresh air to circulate.
2. Poor Ventilation
The kitchen is usually the main area in your home where heat, fire, and smoke are in abundance. But the rest of your home needs proper ventilation, too. Many factors can lower your indoor air quality, and it’s especially tricky when you don’t notice the changes. There’s an interesting condition called nose blindness. With nose blindness, you may not realize your indoor air quality is declining because you’ve become accustomed to the smells.
Whether it’s mildew growth or allergen buildup, air quality issues develop gradually and are easy to overlook. That’s why a good ventilation system is crucial. To improve ventilation, use tools like air purifiers, humidifiers and fans. For example, when you take a hot shower, steam typically circulates in excess. Turn on the bathroom fan to reduce excess moisture and prevent mildew and mold growth.
3. Growth and Spread of Mold and Mildew
No one is exempt from mold and mildew. Just by having windows, your house becomes vulnerable to their spread. If you have a basement, your risk increases even more. Bathrooms are also prime areas for mold and mildew growth, especially when they are humid or damp. If mold and mildew spread undetected, they can lead to serious health issues, such as respiratory problems, asthma attacks and allergic reactions.
To decrease the chances of mold and mildew growth, focus on controlling household humidity levels. Invest in a hygrometer to keep relative humidity between 30% and 50%, and use a dehumidifier to manage moisture. Also, use fans to circulate damp air out of bathrooms, and open windows for a few minutes daily to promote air circulation.
4. Outdoor Air
Even if you live on a tucked-away street with little commotion or foot traffic, outdoor pollution can still affect your home. In the spring, excess pollen is common. Throughout the year, pollutants like car exhaust are unavoidable. These pollutants can enter your home when you open doors or windows. While letting in fresh air, you also bring in outdoor pollutants.
To manage these pollutants, you must maintain systems that filter them out. Installing air filters and regularly changing them is one of the best ways to protect your home. The frequency of filter changes depends on factors like pets or allergy sufferers in the home, but most manufacturers recommend changing them at least every 90 days. Additionally, ensure your doors and windows are properly sealed. Keep an eye out for cracks in walls or windows to prevent unwanted air and pollutants from entering.
5. Cleaning Products
Maintaining a clean home is important, but some cleaning products may be polluting your indoor air. Many household cleaners contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Unfortunately, these chemicals can cause health issues ranging from irritation and headaches to kidney damage. Instead of using these harmful products, opt for low-VOC cleaners, or choose natural options. Whether you buy natural products or make your own, investing in safer cleaning options will help reduce harmful chemicals in your home.
Ask for Professional Help
One of the most effective ways to maintain your indoor air quality in Mokena, IL and the surrounding area is by calling for professional assistance. Our HVAC technicians can help with air filtration, humidifier installation, UV light installation, and installation, maintenance, and repairs for heating and cooling systems. By hiring our team at Allegiance Heating & Cooling, you can equip your home with the necessary tools to keep you breathing healthy indoor air.
For more on how Allegiance Heating & Cooling can assist, contact us today!
