A homeowner spraying an air freshener.

Ways You are Harming Your Indoor Air Quality

Did you know that the air inside your home can be up to five times more polluted than the air outside? Many homeowners are unaware of the ways they are harming their indoor air quality and, as a result, are putting their health as well as the health of the rest of their household at risk. The air you breathe in your home should be the highest quality possible, especially if you or anyone you live with has respiratory issues like allergies or asthma.

In this blog post, Jack Frost Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC will discuss some of the most common ways homeowners are harming their indoor air quality, and provide tips on how to fix the problem.

Using Harsh Chemicals as Cleaning Products

One of the most common ways homeowners are harming their indoor air quality is by using harsh chemicals as cleaning products, including air fresheners. Many household cleaners contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be released into the air and contribute to poor indoor air quality. To avoid this, look for cleaning products that are labeled “low-VOC” or “no-VOC.” You can also try making your own cleaning solutions using natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.

Not Cleaning Up Pet Hair

Another way homeowners harm their indoor air quality is by allowing pet dander and dust to collect on furniture. We love our furry friends, but their fur and dander can cause a serious impact on our indoor air quality. If you have pets, make sure to vacuum regularly and dust furniture to reduce the amount of allergens in the air. If you suffer from dust allergies, consider investing in a HEPA air purifier to help remove these particles from the air. Grooming your pets regularly will also reduce the amount of fur and dander collecting on your floors and furniture.

Forgetting to Change Your AC Filter

Forgetting to change your home’s air filters is another common mistake that can lead to poor indoor air quality. Most homes have furnace filters that should be changed every three months. However, if you have pets or someone in your household suffers from allergies, you may need to change your filters more frequently. Air purifiers can also help reduce the amount of allergens and other particles in the air.

Pro tip: Before you head to your local home improvement store to buy a new air filter, make sure you check the size of your current filter so you know the correct one to purchase.

Smoking or Vaping Indoors

Smoking or vaping indoors is one of the worst things you can do for your indoor air quality. Cigarette smoke contains thousands of chemicals that can be released into the air, including formaldehyde, nicotine, and lead. These chemicals can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory illnesses, cancer, and heart disease. If you smoke cigarettes or vape, it’s important to do so outside to protect your indoor air quality and others in your household.

By following these tips, you can improve your indoor air quality and create a healthier environment for yourself and your family. Remember, the air inside your home should be clean and fresh – not polluted with harmful chemicals or allergens. Take steps to improve your indoor air quality today by giving our team a call at (973) 520-0505 to learn about our indoor air quality services and how we can help you breathe easier at home.