According to a
survey sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans spend
87% of their time inside enclosed buildings. With the current pandemic, this percentage has likely increased, with people opting to work from home due to health and safety concerns. Weighing this fact, it is therefore important to assess the household situation to ensure that it does not endanger the welfare of its occupants. One of the issues that need to be addressed promptly is
indoor air quality.
Poor indoor air quality can be caused by a variety of factors, including indoor
mold growth.
ServiceMaster by Wright has compiled some
tips to improve the air quality inside the home in order to maintain a safe and healthy environment.
10 Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality
- Control the source. Identify the sources of poor indoor air quality and take steps to eliminate them through sealing or adjustments to decrease emissions. This is a cost-effective method to keep indoor air quality healthy compared to increasing ventilation, because the latter will result to high energy costs.
- Maintain clean surroundings. Regular vacuuming and effective cleaning methods will greatly reduce indoor air pollution by getting rid of contaminants such as dust, dirt, and pet dander. Items with the tendency to attract allergens, such as bedding and curtains, must be washed regularly.
- Declutter. Remove unnecessary household items that can trap dust and significantly contribute to poor indoor air quality.
- Keep plants outdoors. While indoor plans can help reduce stress, they can trigger allergies for some people and even aid mold growth. If a family member has allergies, it may be best to keep greenery outside.
- Improve home ventilation. Proper ventilation helps remove airborne pollutants. Consider installing exhaust fans in kitchens or bathrooms to increase the outdoor air ventilation rate. Read the U.S. Dept. of Energy's Energy Saver: Whole-House Ventilation to check house ventilation system options.
- Utilize air purifiers. For occupants with allergies, an air purifier can help if the source of indoor air pollution cannot be controlled. Place them in the commonly occupied areas of the house to capture allergens and reduce their number.
- Utilize air cleaners. While most air cleaners cannot remove gaseous pollutants, they are generally effective at removing particles that are suspended in the air. Look up for the best type and size of air cleaner that is most suited to the property. Learn more about air cleaners.
- Change filters regularly. Air filters prevent contaminated air from being circulated throughout the home by trapping dust, dirt, and other airborne particles. Having air ducts cleaned can also significantly lower the risk of recirculating dust.
- Check for the signs of mold growth. Contaminated air generated by mold has brought about a worldwide impactful death as reported by the World Health Organization in 2009, published in the Guidelines of Indoor Quality. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas, such as the basement, to prevent mold growth. If mold is noticed, immediately contact a professional mold removal company to have it remediated as soon as possible.
- Allow fresh air to enter. Letting fresh air in is a significant factor in promoting healthy indoor air quality. This can be achieved by opening windows and doors or through HVAC outdoor air intakes.
Got Mold? Trust ServiceMaster by Wright, Southwest Florida's Trusted Mold Remediation Company
Mold growth can significantly contribute to poor indoor air quality and endanger your family's health, which is why ServiceMaster by Wright is here to help. For over 40 years, we have been helping residential and commercial properties from Bradenton to Marco Island, Florida, with effective mold remediation services. Our IICRC-certified firm has licensed and fully bonded technicians equipped with state-of-the-art cleaning equipment and have been trained under the industry's latest and most effective approaches with regards to cleaning and restoration. We are also a Preferred Vendor for insurance companies in Florida and will help assist policyholders regarding the insurance claims process.
Contact ServiceMaster by Wright today at (239) 431-9947 or message us online for more details. We are servicing customers in Bonita Springs, Bradenton, Cape Coral, Englewood, Fort Myers, Longboat Key, Naples, Marco Island, Sarasota, Siesta Key, and Venice, Florida.