If you’ve ever driven past one of Indiana’s coal-fired power plants, steel mills, or refineries, one thing you probably noticed was the amount of pollution entering the air. Even with today’s sophisticated air pollution control technology, we can clearly see and smell what’s mingling with the air we breathe.
What’s indoor air pollution?
But did you realize that the air inside your home may be even more polluted than what you’ve seen in industrial settings? It’s true! Everything from cooking odors, to cleaning products, to paints and other finishes, to pet dander and ordinary dust and dirt collect in our indoor air. Since there usually aren’t any breezes, they don’t get blown away like outdoor pollutants. No wonder we talk about getting a breath of fresh air when we walk out of our homes!
Can I do anything about my home’s air?
You probably know the air in your Columbus home is not as clean as you’d like it to be. The good news is that there are simple strategies and advanced technology that will allow you to take control of the quality of the air you breathe. We’ll examine each of them individually.
Keep things ventilated
The foundation of maintaining good indoor air quality is having the right type and amount of ventilation. That includes ways to introduce fresh air, such as opening windows and doors, as well measures to remove stale indoor air, especially where needed to remove moisture, odors, and airborne contaminants.
Keep it clean
Cleaner homes have cleaner indoor air. It’s easy to understand why. Vacuuming carpets, rugs, and upholstery regularly helps remove dust, pet hair, and other allergens that can accumulate over time. Dusting and mopping remove potential contaminants before they can be inhaled.
Don’t create pollutants
Tobacco smoke is a significant source of indoor air pollution, containing thousands of harmful chemicals and carcinogens, making strict no-smoking policies important. In addition, using paints and some chemicals indoors can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can pose health hazards. Choose low-VOC alternatives, or only use them outdoors.
Add some houseplants
Many types of popular houseplants act as natural air purifiers by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen into the air. Favorites like spider plants, peace lilies, snake plants, and pothos are well-known for their air-purifying properties. Placing them and others throughout your home will remove harmful toxins from your air while adding a welcome touch of greenery.
Yes, consider an Air Purifier
Investing in a high-quality air purifier can significantly enhance indoor air quality by capturing airborne particles such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. Today’s homeowners have many options, among them the newest models that use ultraviolet (UV) light to remove all sorts of contaminants, including some viruses. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are particularly effective in trapping small particles.
Think about humidity, too
Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30% to 50% is crucial for preventing mold growth and reducing the proliferation of dust mites. Using a dehumidifier in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms helps control excess moisture. In drier climates, using a humidifier can alleviate respiratory discomfort and improve overall comfort levels.
Knowledge that’s a breath of fresh air
From simple lifestyle adjustments to using advanced air purification technologies, there are many ways to purify home air, safeguard against the harmful effects of indoor air pollution, and contribute to your long-term health and vitality. If you don’t feel you know enough about improving the quality of your home’s air, do what so many other Columbus-area residents do and turn to the air quality experts from
Johnson Heating Cooling & Plumbing. They’ll listen to your concerns and perform tests to identify potential problems — along with proven solutions that will have you breathing easier!
