| Indoor air quality (IAQ) has been the focus of a massive amount of attention over the last few years. The EPA estimates that people spent as much as 90% of their time in controlled environments (i.e. air-conditioned homes or offices, cars or other modes of transportation, etc.). Although we are more protected from extremes of weather and temperature, at the same time we are more exposed to trapped pollutants. |  |
The majority of the emphasis on IAQ has been centered on work environments rather than homes, where people spend more of their time indoors. So what are some simple things that you can do to improve the indoor air quality of your home?
DIY for IAQ
1. Do a Thorough Cleaning of Your Home
Remove old chemicals, pesticides, paint, and scrap building supplies. They may contain biological growths or be a source of chemical contaminants.
2. Identify & Correct Any Water Leaks
In this case, “any” can refer to everything from a leaky chimney or gutter to a drippy faucet or a poorly caulked window or door. If water IS where it SHOULDN’T be, correct it immediately.
3. Make Sure All Appliances Are Functioning Properly
Trained professionals should check stoves, fireplaces, water heaters, and furnaces, to mention a few, regularly. This is true especially if the appliances are gas or propane fired.
4. Change Furnace & Air Conditioner Filters
Changing filters often is highly recommended. Another worthwhile recommendation would be to upgrade your filters to newer, pleated, charcoal, or electronic air filters. These filters stop more mold, dust, and fibers that also may carry viruses and bacteria on them.
5. Have Your Furnace Ductwork Cleaned
Your ductwork is the circulatory system for your home. Contaminant buildup naturally happens over time. Have them cleaned every few years.
6. Use a HEPA Filtered Vacuum
Newer HEPA vacuums are not much more expensive than their older bag or canister cousins. The high efficiency filters traps dirt and dust that older vacuums tend to propel out of the machines. Less dust and dirt in the air means less cleaning is needed by other cleaning systems.
Remove old chemicals, pesticides, paint, and scrap building supplies. They may contain biological growths or be a source of chemical contaminants.
2. Identify & Correct Any Water Leaks
In this case, “any” can refer to everything from a leaky chimney or gutter to a drippy faucet or a poorly caulked window or door. If water IS where it SHOULDN’T be, correct it immediately.
3. Make Sure All Appliances Are Functioning Properly
Trained professionals should check stoves, fireplaces, water heaters, and furnaces, to mention a few, regularly. This is true especially if the appliances are gas or propane fired.
4. Change Furnace & Air Conditioner Filters
Changing filters often is highly recommended. Another worthwhile recommendation would be to upgrade your filters to newer, pleated, charcoal, or electronic air filters. These filters stop more mold, dust, and fibers that also may carry viruses and bacteria on them.
5. Have Your Furnace Ductwork Cleaned
Your ductwork is the circulatory system for your home. Contaminant buildup naturally happens over time. Have them cleaned every few years.
6. Use a HEPA Filtered Vacuum
Newer HEPA vacuums are not much more expensive than their older bag or canister cousins. The high efficiency filters traps dirt and dust that older vacuums tend to propel out of the machines. Less dust and dirt in the air means less cleaning is needed by other cleaning systems.
 | Poor indoor air quality is a problem that affects us all, whether we live in the space or are just visiting it. If DYI steps do not seem to be helping, consider calling in a professional. After all, YOU and your family stand to benefit the most! Dragon Restoration (937) 371-3416 |
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