No matter how often and how diligently you clean, your home air can contain above normal levels of pollutants. It’s easy to understand why when you consider that indoor air, on average, is 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air. Factor in that most people spend about 90% of their time indoors – at home or work, etc. – and it’s even easier to see how indoor air can be adversely affecting your health.

Here are some of the top contributors to reduced air quality.

Household Cleaning Products

Sure, most detergents and cleansers do a fine job of getting your home clean and shiny, but many are filled with chemicals that release toxic fumes into the air. Exposure to these chemicals can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and other ailments. Consider switching to all-natural products for fast relief. Still, if you must use one or more chemically-based products, be sure the room or area is properly vented.

Air Fresheners

Conventional air fresheners can fill the air with toxic chemicals and carcinogens. To achieve a pleasant-smelling home without the risk, switch to a home-made potpourri or make your own air freshener spray by pouring ¾ water into a clean spray bottle, two tablespoons rubbing alcohol, and 12 to 18 drops of your favorite essential oil. Shake well and spray.

High Humidity

Damp conditions, like those found in bathrooms and basements, are safe havens for dust mites, mildew, and mold. Additionally, excess moisture in the air can cause hardwood floors to release formaldehyde which can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation. Run the vent fan during and for at least 10 minutes after a bath or shower and add a dehumidifier to remove moisture from a damp basement.

Sealed Homes

Is it possible to go too far to reduce home energy costs?  The answer is a resounding “yes!”, and you see it every day in heavily sealed homes – a hallmark of modern day construction. As a direct consequence, you’re likely to suffer from reduced air flow while giving contaminants and pollutants a lesser opportunity to be released outdoors. Crack open at least one window per day for 30 minutes or more for a healthier home environment.

Bedding

Dust mites just love the cozy environment of your warm bed. Wash bedding regularly and invest in allergy-proof mattress covers. For overnight guests, provide them with eco-friendly inflatable mattresses – the kind that won’t produce off-gassing as they inflate.

Cooking

The smoke produced by frying food in oil and fats can also introduce harmful fumes into the air. Always use the range hood fan when frying food (or boiling water) and leave it on for a few minutes after you turn off the stove or deep fryer. And don’t forget to crack a window open to help freshen up the air.

C&D Cooling & Heating can lend a helping hand, too, by installing a whole-house air filtration system – and that’s just one of several indoor air quality solutions we offer. Contact us today for more information and free in-home proposal.