If you’re a homeowner, either of a new home or an existing structure, you know the importance of protecting you and your family from poor air quality. Whether from allergens, dust, pollen, or pet dander, many factors can contribute to an unhealthy atmosphere, even if it’s not immediately noticed. However, there are numerous small ways throughout the year that you can keep up with naturally improving your home’s air quality, and here we will look at just a few of those simple solutions.
Clean Air Filters and Ducts
Depending upon your home’s air system, whether a traditional HVAC system or a more modern ductless unit, an important factor in regular maintenance is changing out the old, dirty air filters for fresh, clean ones. It’s a small yet crucial investment and only takes a few minutes (and a few dollars) to change the dirty filters out yourself. Once disposing of the clogged air filter, you’ll immediately notice a better airflow and fresher, more breather air that’s free of impurities. For homeowners, changing the air filter regularly is one of the healthiest habits to have, and you’ll instantly feel an improvement in your indoor air quality.
Similarly, keeping a close eye on your air conditioner’s ductwork can be just as important. Indoor air pollutants can build-up inside the air conditioner, making your home and family susceptible to all forms of dirt, dust, and mold. If you have an older home or are considering putting your house on the market, it is a good idea to call in regular maintenance from a professional technician to service your HVAC system and clean out those ducts of any airborne pollution. As another worthy investment, having your ducts cleaned regularly can make your air conditioner last longer, helping you avoid larger, more costly repairs or an eventual replacement unit. Additionally, if your home is on the market, one of the best ways to speed up the process of selling your home is to present potential buyers with a modern, functioning air system that passes mandatory codes and home inspection.
Bathroom and Kitchen Ventilation
Taking care of your home’s HVAC system is, perhaps, the largest scale improvement option for your family’s air quality. Still, there are also specific areas of your household that need regular attention, as well. Your kitchen and various bathrooms are the most important room for taking note of, as these are the areas that require proper ventilation.
In the bathrooms, cleaning exhaust fans are the best way of removing moisture from the air, which prevents the spread of dangerous mold and mildew. Much like your HVAC unit’s filters, these fans can also become clogged over time. Each season, remove the fan’s cover and manually vacuum out the debris inside, clearing the pathways and ensuring only the cleanest airflow makes it through. This is one of the easiest ways to protect your family from airborne pollutants.
Another room getting constant use is your home’s kitchen, which comes with its own potential dangers. For example, a gas stove releases its own pollutants, while an electric range stovetop produces smoke and particulates food as you cook. To easily improve the room’s ventilation, be sure to use the fan over the hood of your stove at all times while cooking, and (if possible, especially during the summer months) crack a window while the stove and oven are switched on.
Air Purifiers and Consistent Cleaning
If air quality is of particular concern, especially if you or a family member have asthma, this may be the best time to consider installing a whole-home air purifier through your pre-existing HVAC system. As an additional function, the air purifier can kill bacteria, mold, and viruses that circulate through the air, reduce the number of odors and chemical emissions, and bring to your household an all-around fresher scent and air quality.
However, the most efficient and sure-fire way to keep airborne contaminants from your family is to keep a regular schedule for basic cleaning and vacuuming. This will always keep the freshest air circulating while not allowing mold, dust, or germs to get cozy in your home.
