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We all know that outdoor air pollution, such as smoke, smog and fumes can harm our health. However, indoor air pollution can also have an effect on our health. Some studies have shown that the air inside of our homes is often more harmful than the air outside. You may be unaware of the effects of poor air quality in your home, and it can be difficult to determine if there is a problem. Some symptoms of exposure to air pollution inside are an itchy or runny nose, burning or itchy eyes, rashes, scratchy throat, coughing, wheezing, dizziness, fatigue, nausea and headaches. Some more serious health problems can arise, such as asthma or other breathing disorders. Those with weaker immune systems, or children may be more effected by air pollution.
There are some tests that can be performed to find out if there is radon in your air at home, which is one of the main causes of lung cancer. There are also tests that will give you a complete breakdown of your home air quality, but those can be relatively expensive.
Most Common indoor air pollutants:
Dust
Pet Dander
Mold and Spores
Pollen
Smoke
Fumes from Household Products
Vehicle Exhaust
Formaldehyde
Pesticides
Some of these pollutants can be caused by merely cooking, cleaning, taking a bath, or heating your home. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to diminish the probability of indoor air pollution and improve the quality of air inside your home.
Follow these steps to reduce indoor air pollution:
Filters
Filters in your furnace and air conditioner should be changed accordingly. There are a variety of designs available. You should choose one with the most efficiency.
Humidifiers
You can find a stand-alone unit for your home and place it in an area where the air will be best circulated. You can also find humidifiers to be installed in your heating and/or cooling systems. When your humidifier is not clean it will release bacteria into the air. Be sure to clean often and replace the water with fresh water.
Dehumidifiers
If any place in your home has high humidity, a dehumidifier may do well in that area. Often times, your basement will have high humidity.
Home Ventilation
Make sure that air is circulated throughout your home. It’s best to have air from outside circulating throughout your home to keep the air fresh. This will reduce the amount of pollution in your home.
Carbon Monoxide
Install a carbon monoxide detector in every bedroom, and on every floor of your home. Carbon monoxide is nearly impossible to detect without one. It has no odor or color.
Smoking
If it isn’t already, make your home smoke-free. If someone in your home smokes, have them do it outside, especially if you have children living there.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde has been utilized in building products, pressed wood, and carpeting. When using any of these products for your home, be certain they do not contain this pollutant.
Cleaning
Clean your home often, dusting and vacuuming. This will reduce the amount of lung aggravations, and those with asthma or allergies will benefit the most.
Plants
Plants are the earth’s natural air filter. Buy some plants to keep around your home. They will help maintain healthy air. It has been said that the best natural air filter is the bamboo. If you can find some, place them throughout your home.
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