3 Tips to Improve the Air Quality of Your Home

With homes being built more airtight than ever, it’s hard to believe that in many cases, the air inside our homes is more polluted than the air outside! But how does the polluted air get in? You might be surprised that learn that, whether directly or indirectly, we bring in the majority of indoor pollutants. From dust mites and pet dander to air fresheners and cleaners full of chemicals, there’s a good possibility the air in your home is full of pollutants and allergens that have no way to escape your snug, weathertight environment.

With a population that’s spending more time indoors than ever, it’s essential to our health and well-being that we make improving the air quality of our homes a priority. Here are some simple ways to do this.

• Use a HEPA filter. A good vacuum is a must for keeping your home clear of all types of allergens and toxins. Choose one that has rotating brushes, powerful suction and a HEPA filter to trap dust and dirt and prevent it from reentering the air through the exhaust. Try to vacuum at least twice a week, and clean out the filter frequently for maximum effectiveness.
• Wipe your feet. One of the easiest ways to keep chemicals and pollutants out of your home is by using door mats at all exterior doors. With a mat on the outside and one on the inside, the majority of contaminated dirt will be left on the mats rather than be tracked into the house on people’s shoes, even if they don’t actively wipe their feet. This will not only keep the air in your home cleaner, but the floors as well. Remember to also mop often to catch the dust left behind by vacuuming.
• Clean the A/C filter regularly. Along with keeping you cool during sweltering summer heat, air conditioners also do a good job of improving the air quality in your home by drying out and circulating indoor air. As air is pulled from inside the room, it passes through a filter that works to remove many of the pollutants and allergens in the air. An air conditioner is only effective at purifying the air if it’s properly maintained, however; a filter that is dirty and clogged can actually start releasing all the substances it removed back into the air. Be sure to clean and/or replace your air conditioner’s filter as recommended by the manufacturer.

Trust the Pros at Handyman Connection

When doing home renovations, it’s also important to be mindful of the harmful gases that can be emitted from paint and furniture after installation. Make good decisions in this area by choosing natural options without harmful additives, as well as by taking advantage of the local handyman services of Handyman Connection. Just give us a call at 1-800-88-HANDY, and we’ll send an experienced craftsman to help you with any remodeling or maintenance need.