The term “air pollution” usually makes you think of the air outside of the home. Actually, indoor air quality can be just as bad as outdoor air. It makes sense. People are spending an increased amount of time indoors and our houses are becoming more energy-efficient, which means they’re air tight and trapping contaminants inside. You should to know what’s negatively influencing your indoor air quality so you can make it better. Here are three typical problems with your indoor air quality.
1. Humidity Levels
Managing humidity levels can be tricky. Too much humidity can assist with the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria. Lower amounts of humidity can harm your mucous membranes and increase the likelihood of contracting a cold or flu and heighten other respiratory problems. Plus, the furniture and woodwork can be damaged by both low and high humidity levels. Lucky for you, you can balance your home’s humidity levels with humidifiers and dehumidifiers.
2. Allergens
The most common indoor allergen is dust mites. In fact, their droppings are one of the most frequent causes of asthma and allergy symptoms. Because dust mites are attracted to pillows and bedding, your bedroom is a retreat for allergens. Another big allergen is pet dander. So, if your pets hang out in your bedroom, even more allergens are accumulating. You can decrease the number of allergens in your bedroom by washing your bedding frequently and using a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. You can take eliminating allergens to a new level with a whole-home air filtration system. A professional from MPC Heating & Cooling can walk through all your options and help you select the perfect system for your needs.
3. Household Chemicals and Odors
While it seems logical to cover up bad household smells with air fresheners, they can actually cause health issues—like eye, throat and lung irritation—as a result of the chemicals they contain. This holds true for other household cleaners. Plus, these dangers can be even more threatening to children and elderly people with respiratory issues. These health risks are even more reason to look into a Lennox® whole-home filtration system.
The air in your living space should support your health, not hurt it. We want to use our expertise to ensure you have the best indoor air quality you can. To schedule an in-home air assessment or ask us any questions about indoor air quality, call us at 308-832-4321.