DID YOU KNOW: The air inside of your home can be up to five times more polluted than the air outdoors?
In today’s fast-paced world, where we spend the majority of our time indoors, ensuring good indoor air quality (IAQ) is essential for our health and well-being. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, allergies, and even long-term health effects. At Mike Holmes Inspections, we understand the importance of IAQ, which is why we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you improve the air quality in your home and breathe easily.
Identify Potential Sources of Indoor Air Pollution
The first step in improving indoor air quality is to identify and eliminate sources of indoor air pollution. Common culprits include mold, dust mites, pet dander, VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from household products, and tobacco smoke. Regular cleaning and maintenance, proper ventilation, and using low-VOC or natural cleaning products can help reduce indoor air pollutants.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality. Opening windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate can help dilute indoor pollutants and improve ventilation. Additionally, using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms can help remove excess moisture and odors, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth. Our partner Panasonic has all the proper ventilation systems you need to improve your indoor air quality. Panasonic’s ventilation, air purification and air conditioning expertise ensure your home has the freshest, cleanest air possible, removing polluted, unhealthy air and excess moisture for better indoor air quality and healthier living. Panasonic is a certified EnergyStar partner.
Mold growth in Toronto home.
Picture Credit: Richard Portugese
Invest in Air Purifiers
Air purifiers are highly effective at removing airborne pollutants such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. Consider investing in a high-quality air purifier with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters to capture even the smallest particles and improve IAQ. Place air purifiers in commonly used areas of the home, such as bedrooms and living rooms, for maximum effectiveness.
Maintain Healthy Humidity Levels
Maintaining healthy humidity levels in your home is essential for preventing mold and mildew growth and promoting respiratory health. Ideally, indoor humidity levels should be between 30% and 50%. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and use a dehumidifier or humidifier as needed to maintain optimal humidity levels.
Test Your Indoor Air Quality Regularly
Regular IAQ testing can provide valuable insights into the quality of the air in your home and identify any potential issues. At Mike Holmes Inspections, our Extended and Premium inspection packages include IAQ testing using the Lüft device. This state-of-the-art device measures indoor air quality parameters such as temperature, humidity, VOCs, and particulate matter, providing comprehensive data to assess IAQ and identify areas for improvement.
Clean and Maintain HVAC Systems
HVAC systems play a crucial role in indoor air quality, so it’s essential to keep them clean and well-maintained. Change air filters regularly, schedule annual HVAC inspections and maintenance, and clean air ducts and vents to prevent the buildup of dust, mold, and other contaminants.
Bring Home Some Nature
We know that plants are the foundation of life. After all, they produce the oxygen we need to breathe. So, rightfully bringing plants into your home will also have positive effects on your indoor air quality.
Plants have the ability to absorb contaminants like formaldehyde. So if you’ve got some plants lying around the house, they’ll be passively taking in those toxins.
What plants should you bring in? Here are a few that are easy to maintain:
- Snake plants
- Spider plants
- Aloe vera
- Weeping figs
- English ivy
Choose Low-VOC Products
Many household products, including paints, cleaners, and air fresheners, emit VOCs that can negatively impact indoor air quality. Choose low-VOC or VOC-free products whenever possible to minimize indoor air pollution and reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
By following these tips, you can take proactive steps to improve indoor air quality in your home and create a healthier living environment for you and your family. And remember, for comprehensive IAQ testing and expert advice, trust Mike Holmes Inspections to ensure your home is a safe and healthy place to live.
