Based on studies conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air pollutant levels can be two to five times higher than the levels outside. With most people spending up to 90% of their time indoors, homeowners need to maintain good indoor air quality. Here American Refrigeration Heating and Air Conditioning Company, Inc. shares a look at the rooms that typically have poor indoor air quality.
Rooms With Poor Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air pollutant levels vary across the various rooms in your house. Areas that aren’t often used, like unfinished attics and basements, generally have more dust and dust mites in the air. In addition, if the house was built before the 1980s, asbestos may be present. Mold can also spread unseen in both the attic and basement if the relative indoor humidity levels in these rooms are too high.
Dust is the primary pollutant in living areas like bedrooms, living rooms and home offices. If you have pets living indoors, dander and hair may also be present. Paint, plastic and various household products can add volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as well, which can be emitted for years. Bathrooms and kitchens typically have high humidity levels, which can allow mold and mildew to grow. Products used to clean these areas also typically have VOCs.
How to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Improving indoor air quality doesn’t necessarily mean you have to schedule an appointment with your air conditioning service contractor. Here are some of the things that you can do on your own:
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Control the source. Controlling the sources of pollutants is the best way to improve indoor air quality. Dusting and vacuuming regularly and avoiding products with VOCs are good practices that will help reduce pollutants at the source. Replacing HVAC air filters can also help clean the air before it reaches your air vents. Rooms that contain asbestos can be sealed or enclosed until they can be professionally remediated.
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Improve ventilation. Open your windows at least 15 minutes a day to flush out indoor air pollutants and allow fresh air to circulate. Use the screens that came with your windows to prevent dust, pollen and other particles from getting into the house.
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Use an air purifier. An air purifier can be run as a standalone unit or as part of your HVAC system. What it does is pull in indoor air, pass it through air filters and/or UV a light, then release clean air. Dehumidifiers can also be put in the same category, as they filter moisture from the air until the relative indoor humidity in the room is at the desired level.
American Refrigeration Heating and Air Conditioning Co., Inc. is the trusted AC and heating service contractor serving Memphis and the surrounding communities. Give us a call at (662) 337-7968 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
