5 TIPS TO IMPROVE THE AIR QUALITY IN YOUR HOME
We all encounter this problem and we all do the same thing. When you start feeling like the air in your Texas home begins to feel stuffy, stale or there seems to be a strange smell lingering, you go straight to the windows and crack them open or you turn up your air conditioner.
Here are five other ways you can improve the air quality inside your home.
Tip #1 – Thought about sprucing up the place? Add houseplants!
Houseplants are great ways to purify the air in your home. They take in the carbon dioxide and give back clean air. Flowering plants are also great additions to your home to prevent unwanted orders to linger as they double for an air fresher. Just be cautious of allergies to pollen!
Tip #2 – Take a look inside your fridge or behind your oven!
You may think that your fridge or oven has little to do with the quality of air in your home, but they do in fact have an impact on the air quality. Refrigerators or washer/dryers that give off excessive heat can impact the air quality in your home. Stoves that have any old piping that may have punctures in them can cause gases to leak can contribute to strange smells permeating into your home. Also, vacuum cleaners that are old and/or damaged can release airborne particles back into your home and can lead to much more issues than a simple order problem. US Home Comfort recommends inspecting all your appliances and ensuring they do not have any wear and tear caused by heavy use or damages that will pose a risk to your health or the performance of your appliance.
Tip #3 – The ABC’s of VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds)
Some products like your mattress, carpets, and linens are made with chemicals that, over time, emit low-level toxins. These are called volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) and they may be present in paint and cleaning supplies as well. US Home Comfort recommends purchasing eco-foam, non-toxic or organic products to replace your old items.
Tip #4 – Your bathroom vents are a life saver!
Just like your linens, carpets, and cleaning products basic toiletries and beauty products can emit VOCs. Keep your bathroom vents turned on far more often than you probably do. Ventilation is key here! It will definitely help with odors caused by your toilet or toiletries, but it will also help combat mold issues and odors resulting from mold and mildew.
Tip #5 – Have you checked your flooring?
Back to VOC’s, as flooring, sealants, adhesives, and backings also emit VOC’s. It will definitely be more cost effective to switch to non-toxic cleaning supplies and bonding supplies, but if you are considering changing your flooring, US Home Comfort recommends making sure the new flooring is VOC free and that it does not impact the insulation and humidity control in your home.