Taking Care of Your Air

Ten Simple Steps to Improve Indoor air quality

During the cooler months of the year most people find themselves spending more time indoors. As such, indoor air quality (IAQ) is something to consider in maintaining a healthy home environment.

Seasonal asthma and pesky respiratory infections are major concerns for many Americans this time of year. But luckily, most people can improve their indoor air quality just by making a few easy changes. The following ten steps can help you get started.

1. Contact a certified IAQ specialist to monitor and report on your home or office.
   
2. Keep pet hair and dander out of the sleeping areas, and away from upholstered furniture, carpets, and stuffed toys. Vacuum and clean carpets, rugs, and furniture often.
   
3. Don’t smoke (and don’t allow others to smoke) inside your home or vehicle.
   
4. To guard against carbon monoxide poisoning, ventilate rooms that have fireplaces. Make certain the flue damper is operational and fully open when in use, and ensure the chimney is properly sealed. Also install carbon monoxide alarms throughout your residence.
   
5. Closely monitor your bathroom for signs of mold growth. Proper ventilation is necessary to allow it to dry thoroughly. Consider calling a certified mold remediation specialist if signs of mold appear.
   
6. Dust and vacuum your bedroom (and beddings) regularly to help keep down dust and dust mites.
   
7. If you must use pesticides, limit your exposure, ventilate the area well and keep them away from food. Follow all manufacturer’s directions and warnings.
   
8. Consider having your home’s central air handling systems—including furnaces, flues, and chimneys—inspected annually and properly repair cracks or damaged parts.
   
9. Have your air ducts cleaned regularly.
10. Change your heater and/or air conditioner filters regularly.

It makes sense to ensure the air we breathe is as clean as possible. For more information, visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s IAQ website at www.epa.gov/iaq or call your local Rainbow International franchise location today.