Three Indoor Air Quality Tips Every Homeowner Should Know This Spring
In recent years, more and more homeowners are paying closer attention to the indoor air quality of their homes. Indoor air quality describes the degree to which airborne pollutants are present in an indoor space. The higher the concentration of contaminants, the poorer the air quality. And since most homes are designed to keep cool or warm air inside for maximal comfort and efficiency, pollutants can become trapped and grow to higher and higher concentrations.
This can cause or exacerbate illnesses such as allergies, respiratory irritation, or even more serious conditions. Indoor air quality is worth paying attention to, and there’s no better time than spring to start improving air quality with the high amounts of pollen and dust blowing around. This article will supply homeowners with tips to boost their indoor air quality for spring and beyond!
Houseplants Can Help Improve Indoor Air Quality
These pollutants are common contributors to poor indoor air quality in homes, whether from synthetic cleaning products, pesticides, vehicle exhaust, or other sources. Of course, it’s best to avoid products with VOCs if possible and be diligent about opening windows when using chemicals, but adding many indoor plants can make a difference.
Ficus plants, spider plants, chrysanthemums, peace lilies, golden pothos, bamboo palms, English ivy, and Chinese evergreen are a few of the most effective air-purifying plants that require fairly little care. It’s generally recommended to add about 2-3 plants for every 100 square feet of a house for best results.
Try These Other Methods for Cleaning Indoor Air
Of course, there are many other natural - and highly affordable - ways to keep the home’s air as clean as possible. Changing the air conditioner's air filter on time, regularly dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, and opening the windows on nice days can all help reduce the number of pollutants inside a home. Products like beeswax candles, salt crystal lamps, and essential oils are also believed to have some air purifying qualities.
Other powerful methods on the more high-tech side include air scrubbers and air purifiers. Air scrubbers use UV rays or other methods to neutralize contaminants rather than capture them. These are most often found in industrial settings. Air purifiers generally use a heavy-duty filtration system (such as an electrostatic or HEPA filter) to capture even the tiniest particles. These are more common in residential settings and come in smaller single-room or large whole-house models.
Stay On Top of AC Maintenance
Investing in indoor air quality products and being diligent about cleaning and air filter replacements are excellent ways to keep the home’s air clean, but they won’t mean much if the AC isn’t getting the maintenance it needs. The home’s air conditioner doesn’t just provide the airflow necessary to capture pollutants in the air filter. It also discourages mold and bacteria by keeping humidity levels in an acceptable range.
Without the proper maintenance, the AC won’t be able to perform these functions as well as it should, and air quality will suffer. Bi-annual AC service visits from a professional are recommended for homeowners who want to enjoy clean air in their homes year-round. Professionals can also perform a routine air quality assessment during these visits and work with homeowners to find solutions for further improvements to indoor air quality, such as duct cleaning or air filter upgrades.
About Skovron Mechanical Services LLC.
Skovron Mechanical Services LLC. has provided Manchester, NH, and the surrounding areas, with unparalleled customer service since opening in 2005. They provide honest upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency assistance, and same-day or next-day service. Call them today for air conditioning services in Raymond, NH.
