Indoor Air Pollution Sources and Ways To Mitigate Them

It may be hard to believe, but air pollution isn’t strictly relegated to the great outdoors. Sometimes air pollution hits closer to home—literally. As the seasons change, and you prepare to spend more time indoors, it’s worth investigating potential sources of pollution around your home. Keeping indoor air clean ensures better health and happier lungs. Here are a few prime indoor air pollution sources and ways to mitigate them.

Common Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor air pollution comes from several common sources. Identify, locate, and eliminate them to ensure cleaner air.

Cleaners

Cleaning products are often chemical cocktails. The worst ones contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which irritate the lungs and can be especially harmful to those with respiratory illnesses and asthma. Switch to all-natural cleaners to eliminate VOCs and other unpleasant chemicals and their odors.

Poor Ventilation

If you want to breathe easier, make sure your house can too. Poor airflow can lead to stale air, mold and mildew growth, nasty smells, and noxious gases. Install fans that circulate the air, and open windows and doors occasionally to invite fresh air into the mix.

Fireplaces, Stoves, and Other Fuel-Burners

Fireplaces may provide pleasant wood-burning smells, and gas-operated stoves help whip up delicious meals, but both also release carbon monoxide and other poisonous gases into your home. Ensure proper ventilation when using these amenities, and subject your chimney to a good cleaning every few years.

Building Materials

Believe it or not, interior decorating may lead to air pollution as well. Paints, varnishes, adhesives, and even woods may release VOCs and other chemicals. Switch to non-VOC products when upgrading your home’s appearance.

Mitigating Indoor Air Pollution

We’ve touched on a few ways to mitigate indoor air pollution, but here’s a recap alongside a few other suggestions.

Improve Ventilation

Occasionally open all doors and windows to allow fresh air into the home. Use fans to direct air throughout the house, and employ exhaust fans to dry out the kitchen and bathroom. A ductless split unit can aid ventilation and, if it has a HEPA filter, purify the air.

Maintain Appliances

Subject all fuel-burning appliances to regular service and maintenance, and ensure they are properly ventilated. A technician can help with this. Consider installing CO and smoke detectors nearby as well.

Control Humidity

Use humidifiers and dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity between 30 and 50 percent. If things seem unnecessarily damp and clammy, look for leaks and other sources of unwanted moisture that could promote mold growth.

Keep It Clean

Wipe down surfaces, and vacuum, rugs, carpets, and floors frequently. If your vacuum is equipped with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner, all the better. It will eliminate dust, allergens, and other irritants.

Those are just a few indoor air pollution sources and ways to mitigate them. Learn to identify and eliminate them to make sure your home remains a haven of pure clean air!