Today, many people spend most of their time indoors, whether at home or in the office. However, they often don’t realize that indoor air quality can be much worse than outdoor air. In fact, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. In this article, we’ll give you some tips and tricks to improve indoor air quality and reduce the negative effects of air pollution on your health.
What is indoor air quality?
Indoor air quality refers to the amount and type of pollutants present in the air inside an enclosed space. Pollutants can include gasses, particles, and microorganisms, and can come from internal and external sources. Internal sources can include cleaning chemicals, building materials, furniture, and electronic equipment, while external sources can include automobile smoke, pollen, and other airborne pollutants.
Why is it essential to improve indoor air quality?
Indoor air pollution can have negative effects on people’s health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), indoor air pollution can cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other health problems. In addition, indoor air pollution can affect people’s productivity and concentration, which can negatively impact work and other areas of life.
Degree 71 gives you these tips and tricks to improve indoor air quality
Ventilation
Ventilation is one of the most effective ways to improve indoor air quality. Ventilation allows fresh air to enter an enclosed space and polluted air to leave. If possible, open windows and doors to allow fresh air in. If this is not possible, consider installing a mechanical ventilation system that extracts polluted air and replaces it with fresh air.
Air filters
Air filters are devices used to capture pollutants from the air. They can be especially useful for people who suffer from allergies or asthma, as they can capture allergens and irritants from the air. Air filters are available in many different sizes and types, from small portable air filters to centralized air filtration systems. Be sure to read the filter’s specifications before purchasing to ensure it is suitable for your needs.
Humidity control
Humidity control is important to improve indoor air quality. If the air is too humid, it can encourage the growth of mold and other microorganisms, which can have negative health effects. If the air is too dry, it can lead to respiratory problems and other health problems. To control humidity, consider installing a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed.
Avoid chemicals
Many chemicals used in the home and office can release toxic substances into the air, which can affect indoor air quality. Common chemicals that can be harmful include cleaning products, personal care products, paints, and solvents. Instead, consider using natural cleaning products, such as vinegar and baking soda, and use personal care products and paints without toxic chemicals.
keep the space clean
Maintaining a clean and tidy space can help improve indoor air quality. Regular cleaning can help remove airborne contaminants such as dust and pet hair. Be sure to vacuum and clean surfaces regularly to prevent contaminants from building up in the air.
Make sure ventilation systems are clean and working properly
If your home or workplace has ventilation systems, such as air conditioning ducts, it’s important to make sure they’re clean and working properly. Dirty or clogged ductwork can recirculate contaminated air, which can affect indoor air quality. Consider hiring a professional to clean and maintain ventilation systems.
Add plants to your space
Plants are not only beautiful decorations, but they can also help improve indoor air quality. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants from the air and produce oxygen. Plants can also help increase the humidity in the air. Some of the plants that are considered air purifying include snake plant, spider plant, and English ivy.
Avoid smoking indoors
Tobacco smoke is one of the biggest indoor air pollutants and can have negative health effects. If you smoke, do so in a designated area outdoors to prevent smoke from polluting the air indoors.
In addition to the tips listed above, there are some additional steps you can take to improve your indoor air quality. One of them is the installation of air purifiers. Air purifiers can help remove pollutants from the air, including fine particles, pollen, and bacteria. Although air purifiers can be expensive, they can be a worthwhile investment in improving indoor air quality.
It’s also important to mention that the symptoms of poor indoor air quality can range from irritated eyes and throat to fatigue and respiratory problems. If you notice yourself feeling unwell or experiencing unexplained symptoms, you may need to consider indoor air quality as a factor. Consult a health professional if you have concerns about indoor air quality and its effects on your health.
In short, improving indoor air quality is crucial to our health and well-being. By taking steps to reduce air pollution in our homes and workplaces, we can ensure that we are breathing clean, healthy air. In addition to the tips listed above, we should also keep in mind that indoor air quality can affect our health, so it’s important to take steps to protect ourselves and maintain a healthy indoor environment.
