Pexels. CCO Licensed.Many modern homes have poor indoor air quality. Pollutants like dust, pet dander, pollen, VOCs, radon and mold spores can build up in homes and lead to allergic reactions and respiratory diseases. By exploring ways to improve air quality, you can make your home a healthier and happier environment. Below are just 5 upgrades that could help you to breathe better in your home.
Install extraction fans
Extraction fans can help to pump out moisture and pollutants. They are highly recommended in rooms such as the kitchen and bathroom – they can help to remove grease and particles released during cooking and minimize steam produced by showers and saucepans (a major cause of mold).
Choose quiet, energy-efficient extractor fans and make sure that they vent outdoors rather than into the attic. It’s possible to install automated fans that turn on every time you’re using the oven or whenever you turn on the bathroom light.
Upgrade your HVAC system
If you’ve got an old or poorly maintained HVAC system, it could be circulating dirty air around your home. Consider whether it’s time you upgraded to a modern system with high-efficiency filters and built-in humidity control.
Make sure to hire a HVAC company to regularly service your system – cleaning out ducts and changing filters can keep your system working properly and keep the air in your home fresh all year round.
Swap carpets for hard flooring
Carpets may be the coziest flooring choice, but they can also be the worst for maintaining good air quality. They act like giant sponges for dust, mold and allergens – these contaminants get trapped in the fibers of your carpet and are then kicked up in the air every time someone walks over your carpets. Regularly vacuuming carpets can help to get rid of most of these contaminants, but some still remain within the carpet unless you occasionally deep clean it.
Hard flooring like wood, vinyl and tile is much easier to keep clean. By sweeping and damp-mopping on a weekly basis you can remove dust and allergens. If you still love the feel of something soft underfoot, consider looking into washable rugs.
Add trickle vents to windows
While having well-insulated windows can help to reduce heat loss and keep energy bills low, it can also trap pollutants and dangerous gases like radon in your home. Adding trickle vents (small, adjustable openings built into window frames) you can provide a steady, controlled flow of outdoor air without big drafts.
Keep these vents open most of the time – especially in bedrooms and living areas. Many modern windows will already have these fitted.
Grow some houseplants
Growing indoor plants is a simple way to improve air quality in your home. Plants release oxygen and can help absorb many pollutants.
Select varieties that are easy to care for and avoid overwatering them to prevent mold in the soil. Some types of plants may be better for certain rooms – for example, snake plants are excellent for bathrooms because they’re natural dehumidifiers and can thrive in low light conditions.
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