Home is where the heart is—but it's also where the toxins often lurk. The average household contains hundreds of chemical VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which are released into the air by everyday objects like paints, glues, and cleaning sprays. This is on top of environmental pollutants such as dirt, dust, pollen, etc. Unfortunately, all of these can harm your health. Unless you live in a hyper-hygienic glass tower, your home likely has some hidden dirt that could be unhealthy for you. So what can you do to make your abode safer and healthier? Read on to learn about 5 ways to make your home safer and healthier.
Use an air filter
According to a report published in 2016, indoor air pollution can cause as many as 1 in 5 deaths each year globally. This is because indoor air pollution can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, or socioeconomic status. The report also showed that indoor air pollution is associated with increased risks for respiratory infections, asthma, allergies, impaired immune function, and increased mortality. Thus, air filters are a great and affordable way to protect you and your family from indoor air pollution. Hepa filters can remove up to 99.97% of pollutants from the air in your home, including dirt, dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and other airborne particles, such as the common cold and flu.
Have your HVAC cleaned regularly
HVAC systems are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning, but they can be a source of pollution and allergens in the home. Most HVAC filters are paper or fiberglass, which can trap dust, microbes, and allergens. If not cleaned regularly, they can also become a source of indoor pollution. Fiber filters, in particular, trap a large amount of dust and allergens. They are also more challenging to clean than paper filters. Another potential source of pollution in the HVAC system is bacteria that can grow in the condensate pan. When not cleaned regularly, the bacteria that thrive in this water can be released into the air you breathe. HVAC cleaning is among the most effective ways to remove pollutants from indoor air, such as dust, mold, pollen, and bacteria. Always use a professional service when cleaning any internal parts of your HVAC system, such as https://www.jcs-homeservices.com/air-duct-cleaning-fairfax-va/, as this will help you to avoid any excess damage to the system and yourself.
Use natural cleaning products.
There are a few ways to determine if your cleaning products are organic. One is the label, which will include the word "organic" and a logo or certification mark. Another is to check the list of ingredients. If there are a few words you don't recognize, likely, the product isn't organic. If you're in doubt, look for a cleaning product with the seal of approval from the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI). OMRI-approved products are verified as compliant with federal organic regulations. If you've tried to go the organic route before and found it too inconvenient or expensive, there are now more affordable and convenient options. Many of these products are concentrated, so you don't have to use them as much as you would with regular detergents. As with anything, it pays to do a bit of research before committing to a product.
Vacuum regularly
We've all heard the saying, "Cleanliness is next to godliness." That's because a clean home is a healthy home! Although vacuuming is not as effective as other cleaning methods in reducing indoor pollution, it remains an integral part of any cleaning routine. This is because a vacuum can trap particles like dust and allergens in the air. A vacuum with a high-efficiency filter can trap more of these pollutants than a low-end model with a standard filter. For best results, vacuum more frequently at the places where pollution is likely to collect, such as near the furnace, vents, and air conditioner. You can also use a HEPA filter, which traps small particles such as mold spores, pollen, and pet dander. Clean your filter regularly, and replace it when it becomes too clogged to be effective.
Conclusion
Many people often overlook home safety and health. Although these issues may not be as apparent as other health concerns, they are no less important. If you need help, be sure to get a same day air conditioner repair quotation as there is no quick fix when it comes to making your home safer and healthier. It takes time to make these changes, but they are worth the effort. This is especially true when you consider how much money you can save by implementing these changes in your home.
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