Improve Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

You may think of air pollution as something that occurs outside rather than inside your home – vehicular exhaust, garbage sites, smog or industrial fumes. However, the truth is that your home can be more polluted than the air outside. You may have poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in your home and not even realize it.  If you have poor IAQ, you and members of your family could be suffering from health problems.  Here are five ways you can improve your home’s IAQ.

Change filters

A simple and cheap way to increase IAQ is to change the air filter.  Old, dirty air filters allow lots of allergens and dirt which can cause a wide range of problems including colds, headaches, and breathing problems into your home. Aside from causing negative effects on your body, dirty filters may cause the air conditioner greatly effect the efficiency of the unit.  Be sure to regularly change your filter, it’s a simple and economical way to keep your family breathing clean air.

Controlling humidity levels

Indoor humidity levels must be maintained between 45% and 55%. One way to achieve these levels is to purchase a dehumidifier. You can’t manage something you can’t measure.  A humidifier will reduce the amount of humidity in your air and lead to better breathing.  Having a dehumidifier in especially damp areas such as the basement is an inexpensive way of improving IAQ.
Proper ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential in reducing cooking odors, smoke, indoor pollutants, and moisture. Adequate ventilation in the basement, attic, and crawl space is necessary to improve indoor air quality and keep moisture from plaguing your home.  Be sure your return vents are fee of dust build up and are not blocked by furniture.   In the bathroom, laundry area and the kitchen install exhaust vent fans.

Avoid smoking inside the home

Smoke from cigarettes contains over 4000 different chemicals at high concentration, most of which are toxic. Second-hand cigarette smoke has similar effects to smoking. The best option is to stop smoking completely. Since quitting can be difficult, it would help to smoke outside. If you have friends who smoke, simply ask them to step outside if you truly care about indoor air quality at your home.

Photocatalytic air purifiers

Photocatalytic air purifiers use a method known as photocatalysis to zap all the harmful air pollutants and transform them to safe substances. This light powered purifier is effective for all types of people including those with asthma and allergies. Photocatalytic air purifiers work effectively to improve your home’s IAQ. Your professional HVAC contractor can help you with the proper unit, placement and installation of a photocatalytic air purifier.

IAQ is important to the health of you and your family.  When you implement the methods mentioned above your home’s IAQ will increase leading to a healthier home.    Contact the professionals at Air Expo NJ today to help you asses and improve your home’s indoor air quality.