10 Eye-Opening Facts About Your Home's Air Quality.

While we often fret about outdoor pollution like forest fires, smog or that factory down the road, the air inside our homes can be even more concerning. Here are ten crucial facts about indoor air quality that every homeowner should know, along with practical solutions to help you breathe easier.

1. Your Home's Air Might Be Dirtier Than You Think

EPA studies have shown that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, sometimes even worse. This pollution comes from many types of sources: outdoor contaminants that seep in, off-gassing from furniture and building materials, mold from moisture in the bathroom and even our daily activities like cooking and cleaning.

Solution: Start by identifying pollution sources in your home. Use low or no-VOC paints and furnishings, avoid synthetic air fresheners, and opt for natural/non-toxic cleaning products. Consider using a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter in high-traffic areas of your home. If on a budget, try making a “Corsi Rosenthal Box” that can be highly effective to help you breathe better quality air.

2. Poor Indoor Air Quality Can Make You Sick

Chronic exposure to indoor pollutants can cause or worsen respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis. Also having headaches, fatigue, and even long-term health issues can be linked to poor IAQ. If you find yourself feeling less energized or fatigued while at home, you may want to consider checking your indoor environment.

Solution: Pay attention to your health. If you notice symptoms improving when you're away from home, your indoor air might be the culprit. Improve ventilation by opening windows when weather permits, and use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Consider having your ducts professionally cleaned if you suspect they're harboring contaminants.

3. Everyday Products Can Be Major Polluters

Many common household items release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into your air. These include paints, varnishes, cleaning supplies, and even some types of furniture, carpets and mattresses. Long-term exposure to VOCs can lead to serious health problems, including liver and kidney damage.

Solution: Try to only purchase low-VOC or no-VOC products when possible. When using products that do contain VOCs, ensure proper ventilation. Some items take multiple days to off-gas VOCs. Store paints, solvents, and pesticides in a detached shed or garage if possible. Consider using natural cleaning alternatives like vinegar and baking soda for everyday cleaning tasks.

4. Proper Ventilation is Crucial

Modern homes are built to be energy-efficient, which is great for your utility bills but can trap pollutants inside. Without proper ventilation, these contaminants can build up to harmful levels.

Solution: Use a mix of natural and mechanical ventilation. Open windows on opposite sides of your home to create cross-ventilation. Install and use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. For more comprehensive solutions, consider a whole-house ventilation system like a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy recovery ventilator (ERV).

5. Mold: The Sneaky IAQ Culprit

Mold grows in damp, humid environments and can thrive in hidden places like behind walls or under floors. All it needs is constant moisture and “food” i.e. Dust. It can cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues and even more serious health concerns if you’ve been exposed to it for a long period of time.

Solution: Control moisture in your home. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas, fix leaks promptly, and ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens. Regularly inspect areas prone to moisture, like basements and attics. If you find mold, clean small areas with a solution of water and detergent but call a DIH Pro for larger infestations.

6. Radon: The Invisible Threat

Radon is a radioactive gas from the earth that can seep into homes through foundation cracks. It's the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, and it's odorless and invisible.

Solution: Test your home for radon – it's affordable and easy. You can buy a test kit at most hardware stores or hire a DIH professional. If levels are high, install a radon mitigation system. These systems typically involve a pipe and fan to vent radon from beneath your home to the outside air.

7. Air Quality Affects More Than Just Physical Health

Poor air quality can impact your mental well-being too. Studies have linked exposure to indoor pollutants with increased stress levels, mood changes, and cognitive issues.

Solution: Create a clean air sanctuary in your bedroom. Use an air purifier, keep plants known for air-cleaning properties (like spider plants or peace lilies), and remove electronic devices that can emit pollutants. Ensure your bedroom is well-ventilated and use hypoallergenic bedding to reduce allergens.

8. Children Are More Vulnerable to Poor Air Quality

Kids breathe more air relative to their body weight than adults do, which means they're more affected by pollutants. Their developing bodies are also more susceptible to the harmful effects of poor IAQ.

Solution: Pay extra attention to air quality in children's rooms. Use low-VOC paints and furnishings, keep rooms well-ventilated, and regularly clean or replace air filters. Avoid using harsh cleaning products or pesticides in areas where children play.

9. Air Purifiers Can Make a Big Difference

A good air purifier can significantly reduce indoor pollutants. They're especially helpful for removing particulate matter like dust, pollen, and pet dander.

Solution: Invest in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter. Place it in the room where you spend the most time, typically the bedroom. For larger homes, consider multiple units or a whole-house air filtration system. Remember to change filters regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

10. Simple Steps Can Improve Your Home's Air

You don't need to break the bank to improve your IAQ. Many effective solutions are simple and affordable.

Solution: Develop an IAQ improvement routine. Change HVAC filters monthly, use doormats to reduce tracked-in pollutants, keep your home clean with regular vacuuming (using a HEPA filter vacuum if possible), and maintain healthy humidity levels (between 30-50%). Also, consider adding air-cleaning plants like English ivy or Boston ferns to your decor.

Conclusion

Understanding your home's air quality is the first step to creating a healthier living environment. By being aware of these facts and implementing these solutions, you can significantly improve the air you and your family breathe every day. Remember, good IAQ isn't just about comfort – it's about protecting your family's health and well-being. With these strategies, you can breathe easier knowing you're taking control of your home's air quality.