The Importance of Indoor Air Quality & How to Improve It

Air quality is a critical but often overlooked element of our health and well-being. While many might associate pollution and allergens with the outdoor environment, the air within our homes can often be more polluted than the air outside.

In this comprehensive guide, the Ideal Air team explores the most prevalent pollutants found in indoor air, their potential health impacts, and actionable strategies for homeowners to enhance their indoor air quality.

Whether you're a health-conscious individual or a homeowner simply looking to create a more wholesome living environment, this post is tailored to help you understand and improve the air you breathe.

Unseen Enemies: Common Indoor Air Pollutants

The average American spends about 90% of their time indoors, making the quality of indoor air a substantial health consideration. Indoor air can be contaminated with various pollutants, a few of which we commonly underestimate.

Allergens and particulate matter: Dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander are types of allergens typically found indoors. They cause allergic reactions in many people, especially those with respiratory conditions.
Chemicals and VOCs: Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) come from various products we use daily, including paints, disinfectants, and even office equipment. They can cause both short- and long-term health effects.
Radon and other gases: Gases like radon, carbon monoxide, and tobacco smoke can be deadly at high levels. They often go undetected due to their colorless, odorless, and tasteless nature.
Biological contaminants: These include bacteria, viruses, and various microorganisms. Proper ventilation and humidity control are crucial in preventing their proliferation.

Your Health May Be at Stake

The impacts of poor indoor air quality can be immediate or show up over time, contributing to a range of health issues. A common symptom is aggravation of asthma and other respiratory conditions, and long-term exposure can lead to the development of chronic respiratory diseases.

Biological pollutants can cause infections, particularly in individuals with weak immune systems, and long-term exposure to indoor pollutants can also significantly impact the heart and circulatory system.

HVAC Systems & IAQ

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems play a pivotal role in the quality of the air circulating in our homes. Proper ventilation ensures the removal of stale air and the introduction of fresh air, diluting the concentration of pollutants.

However, maintaining your HVAC system is vital. Regular maintenance prevents the buildup of pollutants within the system and can catch issues before they become serious health hazards.

High-quality filters and air purifiers, which come in various types, are also effective tools for capturing and neutralizing pollutants. These include HEPA filters, UVGI purifiers, and electrostatic precipitators.

Green Guards: Plants, Purifiers, & IAQ

From botanical beauties to advanced technology, several methods can be employed to fortify your interiors against airborne threats.

The Green Solution

Certain plants, like spider plants and peace lilies, are known for their air-purifying qualities. Through a process called phytoremediation, these plants absorb harmful toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air, effectively cleansing indoor environments.

As a result, they not only remove pollutants but also release oxygen, promoting a healthier and more breathable atmosphere indoors.

The Tech Side

Air purifiers that are equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters and activated carbon are highly effective in reducing the concentration of allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, and chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air.

While you can buy individual air purifiers for a single room in your home, you can also have whole-home purifiers installed with your HVAC equipment. By capturing these particles and chemicals close to the source, these air purifiers help in creating a cleaner and healthier whole-home indoor environment for you and your family.

The Balancing Act

Maintaining the right humidity level in indoor spaces is crucial for a healthy environment. Excess humidity can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, posing potential health risks.

Conversely, low humidity levels may contribute to the spread of airborne viruses and respiratory issues. Striking a balance in humidity levels is key to promoting overall well-being and preventing potential health hazards.

Similar to air purifiers, you have the option of buying smaller systems that can regulate the humidity levels in one room in your home, or you can maintain whole-house comfort with a humidifier installed with your heating equipment.

Best Practices for a Fresh Environment

Along with growing plants and installing better systems for air quality control, it’s helpful to cultivate a lifestyle that promotes good air quality and sets a strong foundation for a healthy home atmosphere.

Smoke-free spaces: Strictly enforcing no-smoking policies indoors significantly reduces the concentration of harmful chemicals in the air.
Clean, safe, and organized: Regular cleaning, proper storage, and safe use of household chemicals also mitigate potential air pollutants.
Detectors and alerts: Installing carbon monoxide and radon detectors adds an extra layer of protection, giving you peace of mind against silent airborne threats.
Open windows: Whenever possible, opening windows allows for natural ventilation and can help combat the buildup of pollutants.
Home renovations with IAQ in mind: During home improvement projects, choose low-VOC paints and adhesives and ensure that areas susceptible to moisture are properly sealed and ventilated.

Breathe Your Ideal Air With Trusted IAQ Solutions

While some strides may require an investment – whether in plants, purifiers, or professional services – the long-term dividends in health and comfort are immeasurable. Take the first step toward transforming your living space into a sanctum of health and vitality by calling our team today.

Ideal Air has been improving air quality levels in homes throughout the Twin Cities for more than 20 years. Whether you need HVAC maintenance or are considering installing a whole-home purification system, let our experts give you an honest inspection, thorough maintenance of your equipment, and a personalized installation that fits your needs to a T.

Call us anytime at 651-707-6007 or message us online to schedule an appointment!