What You Need to Know About Air Quality Indoors

As we spend more time indoors, it’s important to consider the quality of the air in our homes.

A report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), states the average American spends approximately 90% of their time indoors.

This includes time spent at home, work, school, and other indoor environments. Poor indoor air quality can have negative effects on our health, leading to issues such as allergies, asthma, and respiratory problems. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep the air quality in your home at its best. Here are some tips for improving indoor air quality using green materials and practices.

1. Choose green construction and insulation materials

The materials used in your home can have a big impact on indoor air quality. Some materials release harmful chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. To keep the air in your home clean, choose green materials that are low in VOCs. This includes options such as natural wood flooring, low-VOC paint, and wool carpeting.

2. Use a heat pump instead of gas furnace

If you’re looking for a more environmentally friendly way to heat your home, consider using a heat pump. Heat pumps use electricity to move heat from one place to another, rather than burning fossil fuels like gas. This means they produce fewer emissions and are more energy efficient than traditional heating systems.

Heat pumps also provide cooling in the summer, making them a versatile option for year-round comfort.

3. Maintain adequate ventilation

Good ventilation is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality. Without proper ventilation, pollutants can build up in your home, leading to issues like mold growth, stale air, and poor air quality. Make sure your home has adequate ventilation by opening windows and using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. This will help to circulate fresh air throughout your home and keep the air clean. Good attic ventilation is crucial, too. Solar attic fans and proper roof ventilation make sure heat build up and excessive moisture doesn’t happen.

4. Use air purifiers and filters

Air purifiers and filters can help to remove pollutants from the air in your home. There are several types of air purifiers and filters available, including HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, and ionizers. These can be particularly helpful for those with allergies or respiratory issues. Be sure to choose a model that’s sized appropriately for your home and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance.

5. Keep humidity levels in check

High humidity levels can promote the growth of mold and other allergens in your home. To keep humidity levels in check, make sure your home is properly ventilated and invest in a dehumidifier if needed. Ideally, humidity levels should be between 30% and 50%.

6. Clean regularly

Regular cleaning can go a long way in improving indoor air quality. Dust and vacuum regularly to remove dirt, dust, and allergens from your home. Use natural cleaning products to avoid introducing harmful chemicals into your home. And be sure to clean air filters in your HVAC system and air purifiers regularly to keep them working at their best.

7. Avoid smoking indoors

Smoking indoors can have a significant impact on indoor air quality, releasing harmful chemicals into the air that can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. If you or anyone in your household smokes, it’s important to do so outside to keep the air in your home clean.

8. Test for radon

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can seep into your home through the soil. It’s odorless and invisible, but it’s also a known carcinogen. If you’re concerned about radon in your home, you can purchase a radon test kit to check the levels in your home. If levels are high, you’ll need to take steps to reduce them, such as installing a ventilation system or sealing cracks and gaps in your home’s foundation.

Ready to improve your home’s air quality? At Green Attic we can help! Take the first step by using green insulation, getting the right ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and replacing a gas furnace with a heat pump.

As you can see, your home air quality can protect your family’s health. Contact Us For a Healthy, Happier Home!