Easy Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home

Indoor air quality is crucial for your family's well-being, as it can influence issues like allergies and asthma, and even raise the risk of serious health problems. But don’t worry—improving the air in your home can be both affordable and straightforward! With a few practical strategies, you can efficiently tackle the common culprits of poor indoor air quality.

Learn why indoor air quality services in Central Florida should be a key part of your home maintenance routine. Your family's health is worth it!

First, What Is Indoor Air Pollution?

Indoor air pollution includes a wide range of airborne irritants present at various levels in most Central Florida homes. Airborne contaminants include a range of natural and manufactured particulates, including:

Dust mites
Formaldehyde
Mold and mildew
Pet dander
Pollen
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

Every day, household compounds can pose health risks when their levels rise above acceptable limits. Indoor air contaminants are typically measured in parts per million (ppm), a metric reflecting the concentration of these irritants in the home. Monitoring these levels is important to ensure a safe and healthy living environment.

The Causes of Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor air pollution is caused by various organic and chemical substances originating from different sources both inside and outside your home. The concentration of these airborne particles significantly influences the severity of health symptoms. It’s important to note that the levels of these pollutants can change seasonally or with the introduction of new pollution sources.

Chemical Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

It’s surprising just how many household products are common sources of chemical-based indoor air pollutants. Paint, solvents, cleaning products, upholstery, and furniture are well-known sources of VOCs.

Another chemical, radon, is a natural radioactive gas that can seep into buildings from the ground and have harmful effects on your family.

Biological Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

The most common sources of airborne contamination are naturally occurring. Biological sources of indoor air pollution include pets (dander and hair), dust mites, and dead skin.

Other Sources of Indoor Air Contaminants

Outdoor air quality can also affect the air inside your home. Houses near industrial sites, busy highways, or areas prone to wildfires are at a greater risk of experiencing poor indoor air quality. Air pollutants can enter your home through small cracks or open windows and may be challenging to eliminate without proper ventilation.

Seasonal allergens and pollen are also outdoor airborne irritants that impact indoor air quality – ask any one of the80 million American adults with seasonal allergies. That’s roughly 26% of the population!

5 Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home

Improving indoor air quality requires a considered, holistic approach, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are five ways to breathe better quickly!

1. Reduce sources of airborne irritants.

Avoid using harsh cleaning products and restrict the use of paints and solvents to the outdoors. If you must paint inside, always keep the windows open and use fans to circulate air. When you're in the market for furniture, look for furniture that does not have VOCs. Keep your home and its contents clean through regular cleaning. Mopping, dusting, and vacuuming are some of the best (and easiest) ways to tackle biological sources of airborne irritants!

2. Increase ventilation and airflow.

Let in fresh air when seasonally appropriate to remove potentially harmful contaminants. Use your kitchen exhaust fan when cooking and a bathroom exhaust fan when showering or bathing to encourage airflow and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

3. Use your HVAC system.

A well-maintained HVAC system is your best defense against poor indoor air quality. In addition to regular maintenance, replace your air filter every 1-3 months. If you’re unsure how often to swap out your filter, consult your furnace or boiler’s owner’s manual. Individuals with underlying respiratory conditions, such as asthma or allergies, may need to replace their filters more often.

4. Control your home’s humidity.

High indoor humidity stimulates mold and mildew growth and may exacerbate allergy symptoms. To maintain healthy indoor quality, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping indoor humiditybetween 30% and 50%.

Dehumidifiers (in-line or standalone) are a cost-effective way to maintain safe humidity levels, especially during summer or in humid regions.

5. Use an air purifier.

Investing in portable or whole-home air purifiers is a wise choice for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions. Quality air purifiers typically start at around $50 and can significantly reduce airborne contaminants, especially when positioned near sources of irritants, such as a dog bed or open windows.

Central Florida’s Leading IAQ Pros

Dial Duron Service Co. is your reliable partner for all your indoor air quality needs in the greater Central Florida area. Our experienced technicians can identify opportunities to upgrade your home’s air filtration system and keep your air clean and refreshing!

Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality on a Budget