Spring has finally arrived after what felt like a never-ending winter, and with the warmer temperatures and blooming flowers also comes an increase in allergens floating around. For some, this means more congestion and sneezing than usual, and for others, it means raging sinus infections and trapping themselves inside to minimize the effects. No matter what kinds of allergies you deal with, your home should be your refuge, so if you catch yourself sneezing inside, then check out our tips for improving your indoor air quality this spring.
What is Indoor Air Quality?
What is indoor air quality? Indoor air quality, or IAQ, is the qualitative condition of the air inside a building. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a number of health problems, including allergies, asthma, and respiratory infections. There are many factors that can affect indoor air quality, including pollutants from outside the building, pets, and indoor air pollutants such as cigarette smoke, chemical fumes, and dust.
Indoor air quality can be improved by taking a few simple steps, such as using an air filter, opening windows to let in the fresh air, and avoiding smoking indoors. By taking these steps, we can improve the quality of the air we breathe and protect our health.
How Can I Improve My IAQ?
Natural Ventilation
The first step we recommend taking when trying to improve the quality of your home’s air is by increasing natural ventilation and air circulation. Many of us are guilty of leaving the house closed up, especially during the winter, in order to preserve heat, which is very understandable. Unfortunately, it also leads to musty air that is then circulated throughout the house on repeat.
To maximize natural ventilation without wasting energy, we recommend opening up windows and doors across the home in the early morning and evening. This will create a cross breeze throughout the house that will improve air circulation and bring in fresh air from outside.
Air Filters
Next, pay more attention to your air filters. We normally recommend swapping your air filters out every 90 days, but when allergy season is in full swing, you should replace them every 30 to 60 days instead. With so many more allergies floating around, your air filters are more likely to clog more quickly, so this will keep the air flowy smoothly and efficiently throughout your home.
Air Purification System
If natural ventilation and clean air filters aren’t doing enough for your spring air, then it’s time to upgrade to a professional air purification system. There are so many kinds to choose from, we recommend consulting with one of our IAQ specialists before making a decision so that you’re making the choice that’s best for your home and your health.
Add More Greenery
Houseplants seem to be the newest trend in home decor, and the best thing about them isn’t their beauty but their ability to clean the very air you breathe! As you might recall from your early biology class days, plants absorb carbon monoxide and other chemicals, releasinge oxygen as a byproduct. So, in essence, they act as small, all-natural indoor air purifiers. Unfortunately, they don’t release enough oxygen to be able to purify your indoor air sufficiently enough without professional help, but any extra amount of oxygen is welcome!
Are you ready to upgrade your indoor air quality this spring? Let’s get started! Our team of experts is excited to help you on your journey to cleaner air! Visit our website or give us a call at (260) 667-9919 to learn more about our services and talk with our professionals!
