When it comes to your house, it is your safe haven, your comfort zone—it’s where you can kick back, relax, and not have a worry in the world. That’s what makes your house, a home. But what if we told you there are numerous common household products that compromise your safe space, that jeopardizes your wellbeing.
Pollution is not exclusively an outdoor issue. Albeit when we hear the word “pollution”, an image of factory clouds and exhaust pipes emerge, pollution can come in many different facets, some of which are odorless and colorless. So, how do you know if your home is suffering from indoor air pollution?
That’s what we here at Pro Energy Solutions are here for. We are here to educate homeowners, renters, and the like, so your homes are free of harmful airborne substances. Check your home for the following compromising materials, substances, and practices and alter accordingly, so your home remains a healthy one:
Store-Bought Cleaning Products
With the COVID pandemic still in full swing, cleaning has become America’s fastest-growing pastime. With disinfecting becoming a paramount part of each of our lives, this newfound cleaning frequency seems to be further compromising indoor air quality. Why is this the case?
Most surface cleaning solutions and disinfecting sprays are jam-packed with volatile organic compounds and other carcinogens. These compounds are highly saturated with toxins that can lead to serious health complications if repeatedly exposed. From respiratory distress to cancer, this concern is a valid one, especially during times of increased risk. So, how do these cleaning products remain on store shelves nationwide?
If you are purchasing scented products, which most of us frequently do, the contents of your cleaning supply do not legally need to be disclosed on the bottle. Because they carry a fragrance, they become classified under the same law that protects perfume and cologne companies from having to reveal their recipes and ingredients. Now that you know this, how do you circumvent these issues? By purchasing all-natural cleaning supplies that are labeled “chemical-free”. When you see that, you can rest assured and click *add to cart*.
Aerosol Air Fresheners
Although we can all agree that lingering odors are less than ideal, we all likely additionally agree that neither is compromised air quality. Just as cleaning supplies carry toxins, so do aerosol air fresheners. To eliminate these volatile organic compounds from your home, replace your air freshener with essential oils!
Organic essential oils will infuse your space for superior odor coverage without health implications. Whether you decide you want to use the traditional diffuser sticks or go with an automatic diffuser, you’ll receive an even distribution of your desired fragrance without the unwanted risks.
Scented Candles
Paraffin wax is the main ingredient in most candles, and it also happens to be highly toxic, releasing benzene and toluene when burned. These chemicals are carcinogenic and are compared to those released by diesel fuel fumes. Knowing this is sure to interrupt the ambiance it provides. So switch to paraben-free candles, and you’ll be able to light your products assured that they are toxic-free!
Home Cleanliness
Keep your home spick and span to ensure you are not further interfering with the state of your indoor air quality. Good indoor hygiene will reduce dust and animal dander, for those of you with furry family members, keeping these particles from becoming airborne and worsening allergies or respiratory function.
Vacuum your carpets and rugs at least once a week! Using a HEPA filter in your vacuum is recommended, albeit not needed. Remember to additionally clean your bedding, drapes, and other fabric materials such as your furniture items, as these are dust clingers and will accumulate harmful particles faster than your hard surfaces.
Your hard surfaces should be wiped down regularly. If you notice that you are continuously finding new dust particles settling on your surfaces, this is an indication that it is time to clean or replace your air filters.
Air Filter Maintenance
If you have central or ductless HVAC networks, you must regularly maintain them. This includes cleaning or replacing your air filters at least every three months. If you have pets or a busy home, this should occur more frequently. Once your air filter is dirty or accumulates dust and debris to the point of blockages, it can no longer function effectively or efficiently. And if your air filter stops doing its job, your home will become a hub for airborne particles that are sure to upset the allergy-prone and those that are even the slightest bit of a neat-freak (think Monica from Friends).
So rather than compromising both your indoor air quality and your fellow housemate’s sanity, keep your air filters clean and updated.
Home Humidity Control
Where there is uncontrolled moisture, there is a higher chance of mold growth. This leads to a myriad of health and structural concerns, and mold and mildew particles can become airborne.
If you are noticing that your windows are fogged or that your hair is growing at an alarming rate, your home humidity may be getting out of hand. Add dehumidifiers to your home to curb the growth of any mold and reduce the chances of spread in the case that your home has been affected.
Air Duct Care
Follow this motto, and you are sure always to remember that air duct care is paramount to keeping satisfactory indoor air quality: Clear Ducts, Full Hearts, Can’t Lose.
Air ducts are the corridors, the passageways, for your controlled air to be delivered into your home. If they are dirty, dusty, or filled with debris, the air coming through your vents will be carrying these particles as well. Remember, your air quality is only as safe as your ducts are clean.
Furniture Check
Some of your furniture may be made with toxic glues, lacquers, and varnishes that contain harmful chemicals that can exacerbate asthma and allergy symptoms. If you have furniture with woods that have been treated with formaldehyde or contain glues and finishes that are detrimental to health, replace those pieces with new furniture that is not manufactured with hazardous materials or solutions.
Paint Quality
A variety of paints on the market contain volatile organic compounds. If you are painting and feel faint or dizzy from the fumes, that particular paint is not safe for your home. You want to purchase paint that is labeled “Zero VOC” or “Low VOC” to reduce compromising indoor air quality factors in your home.
No Smoking
Finally, reduce smoking indoors. If you have guests that wish to smoke, have them step outside. Even secondhand smoke can increase the chances of you and your family developing asthma, cancer, and other health risks. If you, a family member, or a visitor wishes to smoke, steer them to your backyard!
To better your indoor air quality, follow the above precautions and contact Pro Energy Solutions at (800) 704-7340 for more information about air purification systems. These will better facilitate a healthy home, eliminating up to 99% of VOCs, bacteria, mold, and viruses. You’ll be able to breathe easier with a new REME HALO air purification system installed in your home. Protect your comfort zone, your safe haven, today.
