What is indoor air quality (IAQ), and why should you care? The United States Environmental Protection Agency defines it as, “the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants.” IAQ affects the health (mental and physical), comfort, and well-being of a building’s occupants. If you have poor IAQ, you’re more likely to feel ill and fatigued.
What can you do about it? Read on.
1. Take Advantage of UV
One effective method of preventing indoor air contamination from spreading is germicidal ultraviolet lights (UV). When properly integrated into your heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system, UV rays destroy the micro-organisms that invade your home.
2. Change Your Air Filters
You’ve heard this before, and you’ll hear it again, but changing your air filters works wonders for your home. They work to filter outdoor dust and other troubling particulates out to ensure your home is filled with clean air. If you don’t want to do it yourself, our team is happy to take care of it.
3. Add Plants
Add a bit of literal green to your home with potted plants. Aloe vera, bamboo palms, snake plants, and chrysanthemums go beyond adding a decorative flair to your living room. These plants can remove air pollutants like xylene (causes headaches, dizziness, and difficulty breathing) and formaldehyde (causes skin, eyes, nose and throat irritation).
4. Opt for Eco-Friendly Paint
Are you looking to update your walls with a pop of color? While you’re stock-piling swatches, also take time to consider the materials the paint contains. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are often used in making paints and can cause dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Almost all major building supply stores offer low-VOC and no-VOC paints. Brands like Valspar clearly mark their cans with no-VOC to make shopping a breeze.
5. Seal It Up
Seal holes and cracks to reduce the amount of air pollution. You’re just a click away from breathing easy with Lindstrom.
What are you waiting for? Schedule a service today!