How to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Indoor Air Quality Checklist

There are many factors that can affect your home’s overall indoor air quality. Use this checklist to self-assess your home’s IAQ.

Indoor Air Pollution Prevention

Indoor air pollutants are everywhere. In fact, many of the household products you use (think cleaners and aerosol sprays) may contribute to the degradation of the air quality in your home. Below, we’ve listed some of the top sources of indoor air pollution and steps you can take to prevent contaminating your home's air.

1. Test for Radon
2. Has your home ever been tested for radon? Radon is a naturally occurring gas that has been proven to cause cancer in some individuals.
3. Inspect for Asbestos
4. Was your home built or remodeled with materials made from asbestos? Asbestos is a mineral fiber known for its strength and heat resistance properties. Because of this, it was used widely in things like fire retardants and building materials. Unfortunately, like radon, asbestos has been linked to health problems including lung disease.
5. Choose Low-VOC or No-VOC Products
6. Volatile organic compounds, also known as VOCs, are a group of organic compounds added to household products for a variety of reasons. Unfortunately, we now know that many of these compounds, like formaldehyde, contribute to adverse health conditions. VOCs can be found in a wide variety of household goods including aerosol sprays, paint and paint strippers, dry-cleaned clothing and more. Whenever possible, choose products labeled as low or no VOC.
7. Avoid Pesticides
8. It should be assumed that anything you spray outside your home can and will make its way inside. Because of this, it's best to avoid pesticides if possible. If you must use pesticides in your yard or garden, be sure to follow the instructions and to keep your home’s doors and windows closed while applying the product.
9. Don;t Smoke Indoors
10. It should come as no surprise that smoke of any kind (tobacco, marijuana – even chimney smoke) may contribute to adverse health conditions. Further, the nicotine, tar and odors associated with smoke may permanently stain your home. Make sure your chimney flue works properly and never smoke indoors.

Indoor Air Quality Solutions

You can improve the indoor air quality in your home by:

1. Keeping your home clean. Dust, dirt, pet hair and dander are all detrimental to indoor air quality.
2. Keeping humidity levels consistent. Aim for a humidity level of 45%, year-round.
3. Working with an HVAC specialist to make sure your home is well-ventilated.
4. Keeping mold and mildew at bay. If you notice mold growth in any part of your home, contact a professional remediation specialist immediately.
5. Having your air ducts cleaned regularly.
6. Changing or cleaning your HVAC filter at least every three months.
7. Installing a whole-house or portable air purifier in your home.

Choose Aire Serv for All Your Indoor Air Quality Needs

From air quality testing to the installation of whole-house air quality solutions like whole-home dehumidifiers and air purifiers, your local Aire Serv can do it all. Don’t wait, our solutions are proven to better the indoor air quality of your home, keeping your household healthy and comfortable.

Request an appointment online or call to get started.