When we think of air pollution, our minds often go to hazy city skylines and cars spewing exhaust. However, air pollution is mostly invisible and ends up getting inside your home without you noticing it. There are several precautions you can take to ensure that the air you are breathing within your home is clean and safe. It will benefit you greatly, in the long run, to keep breathing clean air.
1. Replace Your A/C filters
Replacing your A/C filters ensures that they continue to filter out common air pollutants, like dust, mildew, and mold. A/C filters can only work so long, as they are not filled with particulate matter. Although, cleaning your air is not the only reason to replace them. Without proper filters, your entire A/C system will not work as well and may break down. It can be costly to replace an A/C system damaged by improper filtration.
2. Fix the Rest of the Filters in Your Home
There are other filter-containing devices used to clear out particles that can become pollutants in your home. Vacuum cleaners pick up dust before you kick it up, and clothing dryers remove lint from your clothing. Kitchen vents are good at removing carbon monoxide, which releases naturally while cooking. All of these devices contain filters that must be replaced regularly. Just like air conditioning, replacing the filters keeps these devices in working order too.
3. Clean Out Your Ducts
Heating and air ducts can harbor buildups of dust and mold. If they do, they will likely distribute contaminants throughout your home. If you have not had one in a while, schedule duct maintenance.
4. Open the Window While Cooking
Your kitchen vent, if cleaned, will work to clear out the smoke and gas released from your food and stove while cooking. Still, to make things even better, open up your window and let some remnants flow out that route.
5. Make Sure to Use Your Vacuum
Your vacuum cleaner is not just for picking up your house before guests come over. By vacuuming your carpets regularly, you will ensure that any dust trapped in them does not end up in your lungs. You will also make sure they can trap more particulates. Think of your carpets and rugs like another air filter that needs regular cleaning to work properly.
6. Use a Humidifier or Dehumidifier
Nothing is more decisive in air quality than air humidity. If you live in a humid area, invest in a dehumidifier. This will reduce the ease with which mold makes a home in yours.
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7. Plant Some Green Friends
Plants are beautiful, as they add personality and joy to your interior. Although, plants also filter your air. As you breathe in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide, plants do the opposite. It is like a beautiful cycle where you provide them with fresh carbon dioxide, and they give you fresh oxygen. Greener plants do more to filter air, so grow ferns, vines, and palm trees.
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