With the concerns over smog, car exhaust, dusty Fresno days and pollen, many people think that outside air is more polluted than indoor air. In fact, because outdoor air is cleared by breezes and rain and because pollutants can disperse into the atmosphere, outdoor air is cleaner than indoor air. Managing your indoor air pollution can make your home environment healthier.
Change Your Air Filter
Most homeowners know changing air filters is good for air quality and HVAC system performance, but many neglect it anyway. Changing your air filter is inexpensive and not too time-consuming. It keeps your air circulation up, helps to filter pollutants out of your air and keeps air from becoming stale.
Avoid Items That Produce Harmful Pollutants
Scented candles, aerosol cleaners, harsh chemicals and other household goods add particulate pollution into your air. If you do use these, make sure to use them in a well-ventilated area.
Ventilate Appliances
Make sure that all gas appliances such as stoves, furnaces and water heaters are well-ventilated and frequently maintained. Combustion appliances produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless, toxic gas. Appliances in poor repair can produce more CO, and poor ventilation allows this toxin to build up in your indoor air.
Maintain the Fireplace
Keep your fireplace cleaned and in good repair. If you have a fire going, make sure that your flues are open and that there’s enough air entering the room to replace air moving up the chimney without creating a negative-pressure environment in your home. Never burn chemical-treated or wet wood, as these can produce unhealthy smoke.
Reduce Dust in Your Household
Keep your home clean and organized. Clutter allows dust to build up unnoticed, which can feed dust mites, one of the most common allergens among American adults.
If you’re curious about indoor air pollution and its effect on household health, contact Donald P. Dick Air Conditioning!
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Fresno, California area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about indoor air pollution and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Tania A/Shutterstock”