Breathe Easy: 5 Simple Steps to Boost Your Home's Air Quality

Have you ever considered that the air inside your home could be more polluted than the air outside? Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a significant concern that affects your health and comfort. In fact, studies show that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Poor IAQ can lead to serious health issues, including allergies, asthma, fatigue, and headaches. Fortunately, there are straightforward steps you can take to enhance the air quality in your home. Here are five effective methods to ensure you breathe fresh, clean air.

1. Invest in an Air Purifier

One of the most straightforward ways to improve your indoor air quality is by adding an air purifier to your home. These devices are designed to trap airborne particles, such as dust, pollen, and pet dander, helping to ensure that the air you breathe is much cleaner.

You can select either standalone air purifiers or models integrated into your ductwork for whole-house coverage. If you choose a standalone unit, look for one equipped with a HEPA filter, which can capture 99.97% of particles measuring 0.3 microns or larger. This is particularly important in areas like Tiffin, Ohio that experience fluctuating air quality.

For those not on a tight budget, we recommend getting a whole-home air purifier that works with your central HVAC system. They cover much more space than a stand-alone unit and do a more thorough job of purifying the air in your home.

The REME Halo Air Purifier is a standard model that is meant to be installed in the ductwork and work with your home's central HVAC system.

2. Upgrade Your HVAC Filters

If you have a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, keeping it well-maintained is crucial for good indoor air quality. One often overlooked aspect is the air filter. Many homeowners use standard fiberglass filters, but investing in an electric air filter will greatly improve your indoor air quality. These filters do not need to be changed. Just clean and reuse, limiting your filter expenses and saving money over the span of several years.

With disposable filters, make it a habit to check and replace your filters every three months to ensure your HVAC runs efficiently and maintains clean air throughout your home. For more information about HVAC filters, check out our Homeowner Guide to HVAC Filters here: https://www.greenesplumbing.com/post/hvac-filters

3. Create a Regular Cleaning Schedule

A clean home leads to better air quality. Dust, pet hair, and allergens can accumulate quickly, promoting airborne irritants. Establishing a regular cleaning schedule can significantly reduce these pollutants.

Vacuum carpets and rugs often with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to trap fine particles. In addition, dust surfaces at least once a week, wash curtains every month, and clean upholstery routinely. You might also want to introduce some houseplants into your indoor space. Certain plants, like spider plants and peace lilies, are known to improve air quality while adding beauty to your home.

Spider plants and peace lilies are great plants to help purify the air in your home.

4. Maintain Proper Humidity Levels

Humidity plays a vital role in air quality. If your home is too dry, it may lead to respiratory discomfort. On the other hand, excess humidity can promote mold growth. Research indicates that ideal indoor humidity levels should be maintained between 30% and 50%. We suggest 40% in our standard home consultations.

Using a dehumidifier can be particularly helpful in areas with high humidity or during warmer months. Conversely, a humidifier could be beneficial in drier climates. Using tools like hygrometers can assist you in monitoring the humidity levels in your home accurately.

5. Ventilate Your Space

Proper ventilation is crucial for improving air quality. Opening windows and doors can allow fresh air to circulate, helping to reduce indoor pollutants, especially after cleaning or cooking. However, in colder months or areas with poor outdoor air, alternative methods are necessary.

Installing exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms can help remove excess moisture and odors effectively. You might also consider an air exchange system, which brings in fresh air from outside while expelling stale indoor air. Ensuring your home is well-ventilated can lead to a noticeable improvement in overall air quality.

Your Path to Better Air Quality

Enhancing your home environment does not need to be complex or expensive. By following these five simple steps, or any combination of them, you can significantly boost your air quality and improve your overall health.

As a homeowner, being mindful of the air you breathe is essential. Try these tips today and transform your space into a healthier, more comfortable environment. Your home is your sanctuary, and the quality of the air inside matters for your well-being.

Making these small yet significant changes can lead to lasting benefits, and your body will thank you for it! Whether you live in Tiffin, Ohio, or elsewhere, take charge of your indoor air quality and enjoy the rewards of cleaner, fresher air.