Five Tips for Better Indoor Air Quality

Breathe Easier, Feel Better, Live Happier

As the weather cools down, the windows close, and you start spending more time indoors, it’s a good idea to consider the quality of the air you are breathing. You may think of polluted air as something you find in cities, above factories, or near major highways, but the air in your home can contain quite a few pollutants as well.

Indoor air quality can have a big impact on your health and overall comfort. Poor indoor air quality can aggravate allergies and cause various health issues. As you get ready to spend more time inside during the fall and winter months, there are several ways in which you can protect yourself and your family from harmful contaminants. Read on to learn how to improve indoor air quality.

Tip #1: Clean your home regularly to minimize dust and dander

Dust, dirt, and germs can circulate through your home and build up on surfaces. The more often you dust, vacuum, and sweep, the less likely you’ll find yourself sniffling and sneezing. If you have pets, it’s even more important to stay on top of these cleaning duties, as pets can bring dirt, germs, and other particles in from the outside.

By establishing a routine cleaning process that includes vacuuming carpets, washing floors, and wiping down surfaces with cleaning products, you can greatly minimize the presence of pollutants. It’s also important to have your ducts cleaned regularly if you have an HVAC system. Aire Serv of Nashville provides duct cleaning services and can help you stay on top of this important task.

Tip #2: Use air vents when cooking

If your stove or kitchen has exhaust vents, make sure you utilize them when you’re cooking – especially if your windows are closed. Gas stoves can release nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, while electric stoves can also release small amounts of harmful pollutants, all of which can be breathed in and absorbed into your body. By keeping your vents and, if possible, your windows open, you can minimize the presence of these pollutants in your home.

Tip #3: Maintain appropriate humidity levels

High humidity levels inside a home can lead to the growth of bacteria, while low humidity can cause dry, itchy skin and respiratory issues. Using a dehumidifier or humidifier can alleviate these problems, help you breathe easier, and make your home more comfortable. Aire Serv of Nashville offers humidifier services and can help you find the best system for your needs.

Tip #4: Purchase air-purifying indoor plants

Houseplants are more than just great home decor. Believe it or not, a few indoor plants can improve your air quality! Though the air purifying abilities vary from one plant to another, plants like palm trees and ferns can filter your air and eliminate pollutants. So go ahead and bring some nature inside this winter – your lungs will thank you.

Tip #5: Install an air purification system

Routine cleaning, air-purifying plants, and humidifiers are great ways to keep your air clean, but the best way to ensure you’re breathing pollutant-free air is with a home air purification system. These systems vary in size and efficiency, and many require professional installation. Our East Nashville indoor air quality professionals offer air purification services and can help you find the perfect system for your home.

Why Indoor Air Quality Is Important

Some of the benefits of eliminating dust, germs, and pollutants from your indoor air are probably quite obvious: better air means easier breathing, fewer health issues, and improved comfort. But clean indoor air can also provide these additional benefits:

• Better sleep – With clean air comes more comfortable sleep. When you’re not sniffling or sneezing, you’ll be better able to get a full night’s rest. If your air quality is poor, you may find yourself waking up or tossing and turning.
• Less odors – Germs, mold, and pollutants can lead to poor-smelling air. If you’ve noticed a stale or odd odor in your home, it may be time to consider the quality of the air you’re breathing.
• Fewer allergies – Being exposed to unclean, polluted air may lead to the development of some inhalant allergies over time. Maintaining clean air can help protect against this.

The benefits of clean air are clear. If you want to learn more about how indoor air quality affects your health, or if you’re ready to take action with a humidifier or air purification system, the team at Aire Serv of Nashville is ready to help. Creating comfortable homes is what we’re all about, and indoor air quality is key to comfortable living.

Contact our East Nashville indoor air quality experts today to schedule an appointment.