When we think of air pollution, we usually think of the air outdoors, but the EPA ranks indoor air quality as a top 5 environmental risk to the population’s health. Not only are we spending more time in our homes, but our homes are becoming more energy efficient and air tight which keeps pollutants inside the home. Before you can combat the things negatively affecting your indoor air, you must first realize what these things are.
1. Humidity Levels
Your home’s humidity is a tough situation – you don’t want to have too much humidity because that can increase the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria. If your air is too dry it might mean respiratory issues and boosts the likelihood of ending up with a cold or flu due to damage to your mucous membranes. Both low and high humidity have the ability to damage your furniture and woodwork. Luckily, with the assistance of humidifiers and dehumidifiers, homeowners are able to monitor the humidity levels of their home and keep it at that just-right humidity level.
2. Allergens
The bedroom is where most allergens are in your house, with the most common indoor allergen, dust mites. Dust mite droppings are the one of the largest producers of allergy and asthma symptoms. If you have pets, you also have to worry about pet dander which could also be aggravating your allergies. Keep your bedroom dust-free utilizing a vacuum with a HEPA filter and wash your bedding on a regular basis. If your symptoms continue, it could be time to consider a whole-home air filtration system. One of our experts can walk you through the possibilities and identify the system that would work best for you.
3. Household Chemicals and Odors
The smell of yesterday’s dinner shouldn’t still be hanging around the house the following night. While air fresheners may mask the problem, the chemicals they produce could create other issues. The same can be said about household cleaners. That fresh, clean smell may cause headaches and eye, throat and lung irritation. They also pose a threat to children and elderly people with respiratory issues. Again, a Lennox® whole-home filtration system might be just what your home needs.
The air you breathe should be factoring in to your health and comfort and we want to help ensure it does. We know you’re doing all you can do to keep your home comfortable. Let us offer our expertise. If you have any questions for us or would like an in-home air assessment give us a call at 304-707-0600.