How’s your indoor air quality? If you’re like most homeowners, you haven’t a clue. You probably think if you keep things relatively clean, it can’t be that bad, but the fact is, the level of air pollutants in your home is likely pretty high. So how does this happen?
Why Your Indoor Air is Polluted
Pollution of indoor air comes from a number of sources. Here are a few:
- pet dander
- plant pollen
- dust mites
- dust
- volatile organic compounds (VOCs, from chemicals in pressed wood, dry cleaning solvent, textiles and many other sources)
- mold, mildew and fungus
These substances enter your home on you and your pets, or waft inside in the air when you open the door. Dust mites proliferate under damp conditions. VOCs are brought inside in the form of manufactured chemicals and goods, and are off-gassed from these goods. Mold spores are everywhere, and can colonize and thrive when you have water leaks and excessive humidity. Pet dander is composed of dead skin cells, given off by pets.
Tips for Controlling Indoor Air Pollution
To control the above listed pollutants, do the following:
- Brush your pet outdoors to remove loose hair and dander.
- Brush your clothes off to remove dust and pollen before entering the home. Remove shoes. You may even want to change clothes once you re-enter your home.
- Sequester indoor plants in one room to keep pollen out. Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible to keep out dust and pollen.
- Fix leaks as soon as you spot them to reduce humidity in the home. Keep shower curtains and bathroom tiles clean and free of mold or mildew. Install bathroom ventilation so damp air can be removed in bathrooms and over range hoods. Don’t take long showers.
- Vacuum frequently, using a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.
- Change your HVAC air filter often.
- Air out VOC-laden products before bringing them inside.
- Wash linens in hot water.
- Beat rugs outside occasionally.
To learn more about controlling air pollutants inside your home, contact CCAC. We’re constantly concerned about customers in our Corpus Christi area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about your HVAC system, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 361-678-2495.
Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Pexels/Pixabay”
Helpful Information For You And Your Home
Constantly Concerned About You!
Professional Team
Reliable Service
