How Can I Ensure Healthy Air Quality in My Home?
Q: How can I ensure healthy air quality in my home?
A: As we spend more time indoors with the colder weather, our health can become negatively impacted by contaminants in our home that we aren’t aware of - yet should be. If you’re experiencing acute symptoms such as allergies, frequent colds, nasal congestion, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, or fever only when you’re at home, it could be due to certain toxins in the air.
You may be aware through smell that something isn’t right, yet some toxins may exist in large quantities that you aren’t privy to because they can’t be smelled, seen, or tasted. Mold has a distinctive odour that can easily tip you off; yet, carbon monoxide and radon are dangerous examples of colourless, odourless, and tasteless contaminants that can cause illness or death without warning if you don’t take steps to prevent onset. Let’s look at some safe and affordable ways to safeguard indoor air.
CO2 & smoke detectors
Everyone should have these installed in or near the bedroom or wherever they sleep. These can detect carbon monoxide and smoke and alert you with an alarm to awaken you, as necessary. Check functionality and change batteries at least twice per year.
Check for signs & symptoms of mold
If a moldy smell is not removed after cleaning, you could have an infestation that needs to be addressed by a mold specialist. Check your home for black spots, leaks, and damp areas, which are common visual signs there’s a problem.
Air filters & purifiers
Change your filters every three months - or more frequently if you have pets, allergies, or a recent construction that could emit paint fumes and dust particles. Use a filtered or electronic air purifier which helps remove most of the dust particles, mold spores, and other airborne allergens. Opt for an electronic one as it’s more efficient; put it in the bedroom where it will benefit you most.
Ventilation & humidity level
Use an exhaust fan while cleaning, cooking, and showering. Have a few house plants that will absorb some CO2 in the air. Keep the relative humidity in the home between 30 - 50%.
Regular cleaning schedule
It’s easy to neglect areas tucked away or not in frequent use. Dust regularly and carefully clean all crevices that could collect bacteria and mold. Spot clean mold before it becomes unmanageable. Be mindful of diluting strong cleaning products or use environmentally friendly products.
Maintaining indoor air quality in your home is an ongoing process that should be prioritized for your health!
(Article courtesy of homekeepr.com)