Introduction
Fresh, clean and safe are three adjectives that every home owner wishes for their air quality unfortunately this is not always the case. Air quality in a home can be less than satisfactory from a range of pollutant sources and this can subsequently result in a myriad of dangerous health conditions such as asthma. But there are things you can do to first and foremost avoid the development of bad air quality or alter already affected air for the better.
Make your home a smoke-free environment. If you are a smoker or a smoker comes to visit, be sure to get them to conduct their smoking outside of the home. Smoking is a major contributor to bad air quality as it releases thousands of toxic particles into your home at high concentration levels .This can result in a ranger of respiratory health issues, children are especially vulnerable
Step 1
Make your home a smoke free environment. If you are a smoker or a smoker comes to visit be sure to get them to conduct their smoking outside of the home. Smoking is a major contributor to bad air quality as it releases thousands of toxic particles into your home at high concentration levels .This can result in a ranger of respiratory health issues, children are especially vulnerable.
Step 2
Check for various pollutant sources in your home that can result in poor air quality, this can include checking for mould inducing moisture, and regularly checking your stove if it is a gas model. Sometimes people opt to install a carbon monoxide and/or radon meter, which will show any levels present in your home air. Both carbon monoxide and radon are harmful, colourless and odourless gases so this is sometimes the best option available
Step 3
Make sure you check your house regularly for leaks, as moisture can cause the development of harmful mold. Check your roof, ceiling, foundations, basement if you have one and windows and doors for any sign of water damage. If you are uncomfortable or unable to conduct this thorough check you could get a friend or family member to do the task or hire someone. If upon conclusion of the check leakage is detected make sure you promptly get it fixed
Step 4
Increase the ventilation of your home by ensuring that there is regular fresh air entering your home. The cheapest and easiest way to conduct this task is to open the windows and doors when the weather permits.
Step 5
Clean your carpets, rugs and bed materials on a regular basis as these can have an adverse effect on your air quality. This can be achieved by vacuuming, steam cleaning and regularly washing your bed materials. Handy ways of thoroughly cleaning your carpet or mat is to sprinkle it with baking soda, leave it for 30 minutes then vacuum it up.
Tips
- Clean your pets frequently, as they can have a negative effect on your air quality.
- Ensure that your gas or wood fireplaces are well ventilated and try to use them rarely.
- Cracks in foundation, walls, floors and contaminated water are all avenues in which the harmful Radon can enter your home.
- Make sure there is no lead paint on your walls, both interior and exterior.
- Try to use natural cleaning products and limit your use of home air fresheners. These products usually contain ingredients that can be detrimental to the overall air quality of your home. Stay away from products that are heavy-duty, strongly scented and solvent based.
- Perhaps make it a policy for people to remove their shoes when they enter into your home. This can effectively reduce the amount of dust and dirt being brought into your abode.
- Own a dehumidifier to keep your homes moisture levels in a safe range. This is will reduce the likelihood of mould developing in your home.
Sources and Citations
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/air/in/tips-trucs/index-eng.php