Most people keep doors and windows closed during cold winter weather, however, well-insulated homes accumulate indoor pollutants more quickly. If you or a family member suffers from allergies, these irritants can worsen symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and trouble breathing. To keep your home healthy and your family comfortable, here are a few tips to improve indoor air quality.
Improve Indoor Air Quality by Opening Windows
In a well-sealed home, the air becomes stagnant. When the weather permits, open doors and windows to allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home. This will help move pollutants out and refresh the air inside your home. Even a few minutes a day will help to make a difference in your air quality.
Use Ventilation Fans
Anytime you are cooking or showering, use the ventilation fans in the kitchen and bathroom. These fans help move humidity, smoke, and odors out of the home. They’ll also help reduce the likelihood of mold forming in damp areas. Check the range hood to see if yours uses a filter. Change or clean the filter as recommended by the manufacturer.
Run an Air Purifier to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Family members who suffer from allergies or asthma will benefit from an air purification machine. These appliances filter common contaminants such as pet dander, dust, and mold from your indoor air.
Air purifiers are designed to filter rooms based on the square footage of the space. When shopping for an air purifier, make sure that you know the size of the area you’ll be treating so you can purchase an appropriate model.
Keep a Clean Home
Regularly cleaning your house will improve air quality indoors. Vacuum and dust at least twice each week to reduce the contaminants that accumulate on countertops, furniture, and in the carpet. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter for best results. A HEPA filter traps fine particles and reduces pollutants in your air.
Change the HVAC Filter
Your HVAC system works to move temperature-controlled air throughout your home. The filter on the system traps contaminants like pet dander and dust to keep them from recirculating in your home. Replace the filter as often as the manufacturer recommends, usually every 30-90 days.
Esham Inspections provides home inspection services to Maryland and Delaware. Contact us to schedule an appointment.