Most homeowners think of air pollution as only occurring outdoors. However, the air inside a home can contain contaminants in higher concentrations than outside. Mold spores, dust, pet dander, and pollen are a few of the irritants common in homes. Here are tips to improve indoor air quality to keep your family healthy.
Improve Indoor Air Quality With Houseplants
The plants in your home are useful for more than just adding decor to the living room. Plants are a natural way to filter the air in your home without purchasing an appliance or increasing the energy bill. Many plants are known for their air purification abilities, including:
- Spider plant
- Aloe vera
- English ivy
- Chrysanthemums
- Golden pothos
- Bamboo palm
If you add houseplants to your home, learn how to care for them properly, and don’t overwater. Soil that remains damp can be a breeding growth for mold.
Use an Air Purifier
An air purifier is a popular choice for improving indoor air quality. These machines pull air through filters and release clean air into the room. They are available in various sizes and price points, so everyone can find an air purifier for their space.
Choose the Right Flooring
Improve indoor air quality by choosing the right building materials and flooring. Porous materials like carpets are worse for allergies because they trap small particles and release them every time you walk over the surface. Instead of carpet, choose a hard flooring material. They are easy to clean and won’t trap allergens.
Change the HVAC Filter to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Changing your HVAC filter improves air quality and prolongs the lifespan of your heating and cooling unit. As air moves through the system, pollen, mold, dust, and debris are filtered out. Over time, the filters become clogged, and your system has to work harder to push the air through. By changing the filters regularly, you’ll remove allergens from the air so your family can breathe easier.
Environmental Quality Inspection offers environmental testing services in Rhode Island and Southern Massachusetts. Contact us to schedule an appointment.