Aah, spring! More like "Aah-choo!" That's because air inside the average home is up to five times more polluted than the air outside.* Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to improve your home's indoor air quality, so you can breathe easier this season and throughout the year.
Make a clean sweep.
What comes up, must come down. And that means airborne irritants like dust, dirt and pet dander will eventually settle in your carpet, drapes, furniture and bedding. You can keep particles in check by cleaning and vacuuming at least once a week, and washing bed linens frequently. Dog and cat beds can help keep pets (and their dander) off furniture and are easy to launder.
Bring humidity into balance.
When indoor air is excessively moist, it serves as a breeding ground for mold, mildew, dust mites and other particles that can aggravate respiratory issues. A Healthy Climate® dehumidifier works with your central heating and cooling system to keep humidity at a healthy and comfortable level throughout your home, and requires little maintenance.
Choose low-VOC products.
Many common household items give off harsh vapors and fumes that can contaminate your home's air. Called Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs, these chemicals are found in everything from paints and solvents to new carpet and flooring. Choose products labeled low- or no-VOCs to keep pollutants to a minimum.
Install an air purification system.
Whole-home air filters are great at removing larger particles like dust, dander and even mold spores. But for added protection and peace of mind, you'll want a PureAir™ air purification system. It's the only system on the market that safely removes all three classes of contaminants, including VOCs and harsh odors.
Welcome guests, not germs.
It may seem obvious, but a sturdy mat outside entrance doors drastically reduces the amount of dirt, dust and germs that are tracked into your house – not to mention the time spent sweeping and mopping! Consider having family members remove their shoes just inside the door to further confine outdoor contaminants.
Hold the fragrances.
Many household cleaners and detergents use artificial fragrances that can not only irritate your family's skin and sinuses, but also introduce unhealthy VOCs into your home's air. Choose fragrance-free options when available and avoid air fresheners that merely mask odors with harmful chemicals.
Bring what's great about the outdoors, in.
Opening the windows can make your home feel less stuffy, but the "fresh" air from outside can be filled with allergens. Healthy Climate® ventilation systems offer an easy, effective solution. They take in fresh outdoor air for circulation, while expelling stale indoor air and allergy-aggravating pollutants. Your local Lennox Dealer can help you find the system that's right for your home.
- *Source: www.epa.gov/air/basic.html
