6 Simple Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality has been a hot topic of conversation lately, especially as the world attempts to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. While we unfortunately can’t completely sterilize the air we breathe on a regular basis, there are ways to improve the quality of air in our homes and workplaces that can help to reduce the risk of unwanted illnesses and other common ailments.

 If you’re looking for a place to start, here are six simple ways to improve indoor air quality:

  1. Maintain a healthy humidity. Striking a healthy balance with your home’s humidity levels can be tricky, but it’s well worth the effort! Keeping humidity levels between 30-50% helps to keep indoor allergens and microorganisms at bay. If your home’s humidity level is higher than 50%, consider investing in a dehumidifier to reduce as needed, especially during summer months, as high humidity levels can result in hazardous mold spores and mildew. 
  2. Go Green with house plants. Plants are more than an aesthetic addition to your home. They can also act as air purifiers. Certain house plants help clean the air around them and require little maintenance to thrive. Call or stop by your local greenhouse to learn about the best house plant options for your specific space. 
  3. Choose your paint wisely. Many popular paints available for indoor use contain fumes that can cause dizziness and headaches. When selecting a new paint for your home or business, look for paints that contain “Zero VOC” (volatile organic compounds) or “Low VOC” to reduce exposure to chemicals. 
  4. Keep things clean. This seems obvious, but many people don’t realize their cleaning techniques can actually decrease indoor air quality. Be sure to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce indoor pollutants, and clean hardwood, tile, and vinyl flooring with non-chemical cleaners. 
  5. Stop smoking. Secondhand smoke can cause a myriad of health issues, including asthma and cancer. The effects of smoking indoors can last up to five hours in a room, and even longer with prolonged exposure. Even if you don’t smoke personally, be sure to direct guests outdoors to partake in their cigarette breaks.
  6. Steer clear of artificial fragrances. Sure, you want your home to smell fresh and clean, but at what cost? Artificial fragrance can cause headache, breathing issues, and more. Consider investing in cleaning products without fragrances, such as lemon and baking soda, and look for fragrance-free laundry detergents, soaps, and products to reduce the risk of asthma and allergies.

Indoor air quality experts in Fredericksburg

If you’re looking for more high-tech ways to improve indoor air quality, there are several options available. UV air purifiers, specialty filters, and regular cleaning of HVAC systems are all great ways to create healthier indoor air. 

Contact Robert B. Payne, Inc. to schedule an indoor air quality assessment and learn about the right system for your home or business. Send us a message or call at (540) 373-5876 today.