Five Effective Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality on a Budget

Poor indoor air quality can have immediate and long-term effects on your family’s health. It can lead to issues such as seasonal allergies and asthma attacks and even increase the risks of cancer and heart disease. Therefore, it’s crucial for Winston-Salem households to find cost-effective ways to improve their indoor air quality.

Indoor air quality services in Winston-Salem don’t have to be expensive or overwhelming! Here are some tips to help you identify and address common sources of poor indoor air quality in your Winston-Salem home without breaking the bank.

What Is Indoor Air Pollution?

Indoor air pollution consists of airborne irritants found at various levels in most homes. These contaminants include a range of natural and artificial particulates.

Dust mites
Formaldehyde
Mold and mildew
Pet dander
Pollen
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

These compounds are commonly found in most households but can become hazardous when their levels exceed acceptable limits. Typically, indoor air contaminants are measured in parts per million (ppm), which reflects the concentration of these irritants in the home.

What Are the Causes of Indoor Air Pollution?

Organic and chemical indoor air pollutants are caused by different sources inside and outside your home. The concentration of these airborne particulates ultimately impacts the severity of symptoms, and it’s important to remember that concentrations can vary seasonally or with the introduction of a new source of pollution.

Man-made Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

You might be surprised to discover that common household products can be significant sources of chemical-based indoor air pollutants. Paint, solvents, cleaning products, upholstery, and furniture often release volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Natural Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

The most common sources of airborne contamination are naturally occurring. Biological sources of indoor air pollution include pets (dander and hair), dust mites, and, yes, dead skin.

Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can seep into buildings from the ground.

Other Sources of Indoor Air Contaminants

Outdoor air quality can also impact your home. Households near industrial and manufacturing sites, busy highways, or wildfires are at an increased risk of poor indoor air quality. Air pollution enters your home through small cracks or open windows and may be difficult to remove without adequate ventilation.

Seasonal allergens and pollen are also outdoor airborne irritants that impact indoor air quality – ask any one of the80 million American adults with seasonal allergies. That’s roughly 26% of the population!

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home

Improving indoor air quality requires a considered, holistic approach, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are five ways to breathe better quickly!

1. Reduce sources of airborne irritants.

Avoid using harsh cleaning products and limit the use of paints and solvents to outdoor areas. If you need to paint indoors, always keep the windows open and use fans to ensure proper air circulation. When shopping for furniture, choose pieces free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Clean your home regularly; mopping, dusting, and vacuuming are some of the most effective and straightforward ways to address biological sources of airborne irritants!

2. Increase ventilation and airflow.

Let in fresh air when seasonally appropriate to remove potentially harmful contaminants. Use your kitchen exhaust fan when cooking and a bathroom exhaust fan when showering or bathing to encourage airflow and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

3. Maintain your HVAC system.

A properly maintained HVAC system is your best defense against poor indoor air quality. In addition to regular maintenance, replace your air filter every 1 to 3 months. If you're unsure how often to change your filter, check your furnace or boiler’s owner’s manual for guidance. Individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies may need to replace their filters more frequently.

4. Control your home’s humidity.

High indoor humidity stimulates mold and mildew growth and may exacerbate allergy symptoms. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping indoor humiditybetween 30% and 50% to maintain healthy indoor quality.

Dehumidifiers (in-line or standalone) are a cost-effective way to maintain safe humidity levels, especially during summer or in humid regions.

5. Invest in a portable air purifier.

Portable and whole-home air purifiers are sound investments, especially for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions. Quality air purifiers start at around $50 and can greatly reduce airborne contaminants, especially when placed near sources of irritants, like a dog bed or open windows.

Contact Winston-Salem’s IAQ Experts

The Plumbing & Air Service Co. is your trusted partner for all indoor air quality services in the Winston-Salem area. Our experienced technicians can identify opportunities to improve your home's IAQ and keep your HVAC system running smoothly.

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality on a Budget