Did you know that the air inside your house can actually pose more risks than the air outside?

We spend a large chunk of the time in our homes, considering ourselves safe from the outside pollution. On the contrary, this might shock you a bit but the fact is that the indoor quality can be polluted and at times even more than the external environment.

The professor of medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Dr. William J. Calhoun states:

“Indoor air quality can be worse than outdoor air quality in almost every case…”

As per the air conditioning services in Cleveland, TN people tend to ignore regular indoor air quality inspections which results in worsening the condition.

While we can’t do much about the polluted air outside our house, we surely can control the indoor environment of our homes. Here are 6 ways by which you can keep your indoor air quality clean and healthy:

1.   Proper ventilation

A properly ventilated indoor space always have a high IAQ level because it controls the humidity levels and helps regulate fresh air into the house. Now allowing all the untreated air into the house is also not the solution, as it contains high ration of pollutants, car emissions, industrial pollution and volatile gases.

So, according to the air conditioning services in Cleveland, TN, the best option is to use the trickle ventilation, a 10 inch screen with filters that refine the air coming inside the house.

The job of a good ventilation system is not only limited to providing fresh air into the house, it is also efficient enough to throw out the polluted air. It is necessary to install exhaust fans, especially in washrooms and kitchens by the professional air conditioning service in Cleveland, TN.

According to scientific studies the nitrogen buildup after a cooking session exceeds the limits prescribed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As per this organization the nitrogen level produced by cooking on a gas stove is extremely injurious to breathe.

Therefore, it is essential to have an exhaust system in the kitchen. Similarly, it is equally important to vent out all the steam after a hot shower.

2.   Control the humidity

Maintaining balanced humidity levels is important for achieving high IAQ index. It is advised by the air conditioning services in Cleveland, TN to keep the humidity levels between 30 to 40 percent.

Use a humidifier or a dehumidifier according to the indoor conditions. The low humidity level will cause the dryness in the air while the high humid conditions provide a perfect environment for parasites and molds to grow. These conditions can cause serious issues to asthmatic and allergic people.

According to a study conducted by The Institute of Medicine in 2004, there is a direct connection between the pollutants found in indoor environments and upper respiratory tract symptoms. It is vital to keep a check on the humidly of your indoor space to avoid respiratory concerns.

3.   Clean your floor

Most of the bacteria and other harmful components that can potentially ruin the indoor air quality of your home come from the dirt of your shoes which contaminate your flooring. So for higher IAQ index it is necessary to have a dirt-free floor. You can do these 3 things to achieve this goal.

• Clean your floors regularly with a vacuum cleaner. By using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter you will ensure the removal of toxins such as PBDEs and other allergens like pollen and pet dander. Vacuum the carpet, corner and the other regions where dust accumulates quite easily. Vacuuming with a HEPA filter will give your floor a dirt free look.
• Mop the floor on a daily basis; the wet cloth will pick up the dust particles that a vacuum cleaner leaves behind. You may skip the detergent and use only water for mopping purpose, the new microfiber mops are known to clean more than traditional combo of detergent water and an ordinary mop cloth.
• The last thing which doesn’t event even require a lot of effort is putting a doormat outside the door. Remember, not inside but outside. According to EPA if you use a doormat and takeoff your shoes outside you can reduce about 60% of the toxins from your house.

4.   Avoid using synthetic fragrances

In many soaps, detergents and air refreshers synthetic fragrances are used which contain injurious volatile organic compounds (VOC). At times these are not even mentioned on the labels, while it is a fact that fragrances are tested for skin irritation but they are not tested for inhalation.

So, it is best to avoid them and consider using natural fragrances, instead.

5.   Use natural fragrances

You can use following natural resources for improving the smell and air quality of your indoor space:

• Employ small plants in your house, according to a study conducted by NASA which states that houseplants purify and refresh the air inside our house and protect us from side effects associated with toxins like ammonia, benzene and formaldehyde.
• Essential oils are a great way to scent your rooms, while increasing the air quality of the indoor environment at the same time. Essential oil such as thieves oil has the tendency to kill 99.96% of the germs according to a study conducted in the Weber State University. Other essential oils like cinnamon, rosemary, lemon and tea tree are some options you can avail as well.
• Beeswax candles are also known for their air-purifying qualities. They are a good alternative for paraffin candles that are derived from petroleum which releases benzene and toluene into the air.

6.   Monitor your indoor air quality

Well, the most important step you can take is to get the air quality of your house inspected by a professionalair conditioning service in Cleveland, TN.

It is a good practice to get your indoor air quality checked because you can’t determine the exact situation due to lack of equipment, experience and knowledge. A skilled air conditioning service in Cleveland, TN will have all these three qualities.

If you live in Cleveland, TN then the Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air is the perfect company for you that will provide all the HVAC related services you need! Get in touch with them today!