When winter weather hits, it’s nice to stay cozy and warm inside your home. But you may not stay comfortable for long if you experience respiratory problems caused by indoor pollutants. Since we keep our homes closed and well-sealed during the winter, dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores can accumulate inside and cause allergy-like symptoms. If you often feel tired, have itchy eyes, a scratchy throat, or headaches, take these steps to improve indoor air quality in your home.
Circulate Fresh Air
On days when the weather is mild, open the windows and doors to allow fresh air into your home and help circulate stale air out. Just a few minutes a day will make a difference in your air quality.
Combat Mold Growth
Even in the winter, mold can be a problem. Always use your ventilation fans when showering or preparing food on the stove. This will help to move moisture out of your home. Clean any water spills immediately, especially on floors. Moisture can seep into the flooring and make an environment conducive to mold. Don’t let wet clothing to pile up and hang damp towels to dry. Tossing wet fabrics into the laundry may also cause mold growth.
Change the HVAC Filter to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Your heating and cooling system has a filter that traps pollutants before they are circulated through your home. It’s important to change your filter regularly to improve air quality. A new filter will also help your system cool and heat your home more efficiently. Set a reminder on your phone so you will remember to change the HVAC filter every 30 to 90 days, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Choose Natural Cleaning Products
Commercial cleaning supplies often contain artificial fragrances and other chemicals that can contribute to allergies. If you or a family member suffers from allergy-like symptoms, purchase natural cleaning products, or learn how to make your own. It’s easy to mix cleaning solutions with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Install an Air Purifier
An air purifier is an easy way to clean the air in a room. When shopping for a purification device, it’s helpful to know the square footage of the room you would like to treat. Use air purification systems in rooms frequented by family members who suffer from allergies and asthma. Set a reminder to change the filters as recommended.
Keep Your Home Clean to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Regularly cleaning, vacuuming, and dusting your home is one of the best ways to keep the air clean. Carpets trap common pollutants like pet dander, dust, and mold. Vacuum at least twice a week using a machine with a HEPA filter. Dust regularly using microfiber cloths to trap dust, dirt, and other contaminants.
Decluttering your living spaces is also a great way to improve indoor air quality. When you have fewer belongings in a room, there are fewer places for dust to accumulate. It’s easier, faster, and more effective to tackle your house cleaning tasks when you have less stuff.
M&T Inspection Services offers home inspection to customers in Indianapolis. Contact us to request our services.