Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Improving Indoor Air Quality for Health & Wellbeing


Today’s energy efficient homes are built tightly to conserve heating and cooling energy. While this has a positive impact upon utilities—and more directly, your wallet—it may not allow your home to properly “breathe.” Over time, decreased ventilation can become a major health concern: exacerbating problems like allergies, asthma and respiratory conditions.

DIY Tips for Clean Indoor Air

According to the EPA, indoor air can be up to seven times more polluted than outdoor air! Since a significant portion of our time is spent breathing the air in our homes, indoor air quality is very important. In addition to hiring a qualified IAQ contractor to professionally assess your home’s IAQ, there are many do-it-yourself ways to improve the air you breathe. They include:
  • Vacuum and dust regularly. While it sounds too basic, this step is important for removing dust, pet dander and other particulates from your home. Remember to change your vacuum bag and filter regularly, too—or dirt may end up back in the air.  
  • Take your shoes off when you come indoors. This is a simple, no-cost way to reduce the dirt and debris that is otherwise tracked into your house.   
  • Making smart home improvement decisions. When remodeling or redecorating, use natural products that don't emit dangerous chemicals. Choose low- or no-VOC paints, non-toxic caulking and finishes, and natural fiber carpet and furniture.
  • NEVER smoke indoors. 
  • Place dust covers on mattresses and pillows to reduce dust mite population. Many people are allergic to dust mites, and dust mite protection is an economical way of providing allergy relief.  
  • Use high-quality HEPA air filters for your HVAC system. Depending upon the type, these high-efficiency particulate air filters capture particulates and gaseous particles and remove them from the air. 
  • Regularly maintain your HVAC system. In addition to improving the longevity of your equipment, regular cleaning and inspections prevent excess dirt and other particles from entering your indoor air supply. 

Partnering with industry-leading brands, Main Street technicians assess your indoor air and recommend IAQ products that are both affordable and efficient.

Main Street IAQ installation services include:

  • Electronic air cleaners, which generate a magnetic charge to remove contaminant particles. 
  • Air purifiers, which remove contaminants from the air and reduce the effect of second-hand smoke. 
  • Ultraviolet lamps, which kill bacteria and mold that grows inside air conditioning equipment and along coils. 
  • Whole-house humidifiers, which optimize and stabilize moisture levels and contribute to respiratory health.

To learn more about the importance of IAQ in your home, or to schedule your complimentary consultation with our Salt Lake City IAQ experts, call 801-930-5151 today—or email the Main Street team today!