When we think of air pollution, we normally think of the air outside, but the EPA ranks indoor air quality as a top 5 environmental risk to public health. Not only are we spending more time indoors, but our homes are becoming more energy efficient and air tight which keeps pollutants inside the home. Before you can combat the things negatively influencing your indoor air, you must first realize what these things are.
1. Humidity Levels
Your home’s humidity is a unique situation – you don’t want to have too much humidity because that can increase the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria. If your air is overly dry it might leave you with respiratory problems and boosts the likelihood of contracting a cold or flu due to damage to your mucous membranes. Both low and high humidity can damage your furniture and woodwork. Luckily, with the aid of humidifiers and dehumidifiers, homeowners are able to monitor the humidity levels of their home and keep it at that just-right humidity level.
2. Allergens
The bedroom is where most allergens are in your house, with the most common indoor allergen, dust mites. Dust mite droppings are the one of the most prevalent sources of allergy and asthma symptoms. If you have pets, there’s also the matter of pet dander which could also be worsening your allergies. Keep your bedroom dust-free utilizing a vacuum with a HEPA filter and wash your bedding on a regular basis. If your symptoms continue, it could be time to consider a whole-home air filtration system. One of our professionals can walk you through the possibilities and find the system that would work best for you.
3. Household Chemicals and Odors
The smell of last night’s dinner shouldn’t still be in the air of the house the following night. While air fresheners could mask the problem, the chemicals they generate might create other issues. The same can be said about household cleaners. That fresh, clean smell can cause headaches and eye, throat and lung irritation. They also pose a hazard to children and elderly people with respiratory issues. Again, a Lennox® whole-home filtration system may be just what your home needs.
The air you breathe should be playing a role in your health and comfort and we want to help be sure it does. We know you’re doing all you can do to keep your home comfortable. Let us lend you our expertise. If you have any questions for us or would like an in-home air assessment give us a call at 256-801-4701.