How to Keep Air Fresh Indoors? 

Problem:  How can I determine if my indoor air quality is worse than the outdoors?  I have heard this is becoming more common and I have been spending more time inside due to working at home. 

Reason:  I am concerned about the health of my family in my home environment and want to keep allergens down or eliminated altogether, along with indoor pollutants, chemical off-gassing, etc.  I want to be proactive to do my best to avoid future health issues.

Ways to Keep Air Fresh Indoors

Considerations & Solutions: 

Houseplants

  1. Incorporate New Green Plants. Houseplants provide many benefits. They are not just pleasant to the eye and décor.  We exhale carbon dioxide, but plants “exhale” oxygen.  Many plants remove indoor air toxins by absorbing them through their leaves.  Two of these are the Pothos Plant (epipremnum aureum) and Snake Plant (dracaena trifasciata).  Here is a link to HGTV’s 10 Best Plants for Cleaning Indoor Air:  https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/interior-remodel/10-best-plants-for-cleaning-indoor-air-pictures

HVAC Air Filters

  1. Change HVAC Air Filters Often.  Regularly changing your filters once every three months or less will help your system to run more efficiently when filtering your air.  However, you can make this one better by purchasing air filters that also incorporate the filtering of allergens and other microscopic particles.  Filters are rated by MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value), which rates how efficiently the filter prevents dust and contaminants from passing through.  MERV 16 or below is a good rating for home use.  MERV 17-20 filters are suitable for hospitals, etc.  IMPORTANT NOTE:  Use a filter that your HVAC manufacturer recommends to avoid hindering your HVAC performance if it is not required for your unit. 
  • Pet and Mold Concerns.  Filters with MERV 5-13 are good for pet dander and mold spores.  You may want to change your filter every two months or more often during seasonal changes and times of shedding. 
  • Severe Allergy Concerns.  Electrostatic filters are more expensive but best.  They generate a static charge to attract the smallest airborne particles like a magnet. For more information, contact the AAFA (Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America) at:  https://aafa.org.  They recommend changing filters every six weeks.   
  • Trapping Tobacco Smoke and Bacteria.  HEPA filters give MERV 17-20 protection, the highest level for airborne particles.  IMPORTANT NOTE:  Modifications from a contractor may be necessary for this filter to work with your unit. Check your unit’s documentation for details or call the manufacturer. 
  • Washable Filters.  These are very cost-effective but have a MERV rating of only 1-4.  They can also generate mold and mildew in them if they are reinstalled before they are thoroughly dry. 

Air Purifiers

  1. Air Purifiers.  These are convenient to use and filter dust, smoke, and floating pollen.  It is recommended that you look for the Energy Star® label of efficiency.  Or look to see if the model has been tested and Verified by AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers).  Some units have both certifications.

Moisture Levels

  1. Reduce Moisture Levels.  Remember to be proactive to reduce moisture in your home. Run the bathroom fan during baths and showers or open a window.  Use a dehumidifier in rooms or basements if needed.  Keeping moisture levels low will reduce the possibility of mold and mildew growth which can be risky for asthma and allergy sufferers.

Lead-Based Paint

  1. Check for Lead-Based Paint.  Older homes, usually those built before 1978, may have lead-based paint inside or on the exterior. Chipping paint creates dust and contaminates indoors or outside soil. Testing kits are available from a paint store and are simple to use.  Or, you can have it tested through an inspection or risk assessment.  If lead paint is present, contact a Lead-Safe Certified Renovator for repairs or painting. 

Other Harmful Chemicals

  1. Other Concerns.  Check for asbestos.  Ensure that your carbon monoxide detector is working properly.  If your garage is attached to your home and you have chemicals and pesticides stored, ensure that your doors and windows to the room are properly sealed. Have your water tested regularly for contaminants if you have a private well for drinking water.

Benefits of Keeping Your Air Fresh Indoors

Investment Pay-Off:  It makes sense that contributing to the better health of you and your family by enhancing your home environment for the best indoor air quality will likely save on healthcare costs from issues resulting from poor air quality indoors.

Conclusion

Conclusion:  Your attention to these details will give you more peace of mind knowing you have been proactive toward a healthy atmosphere in your home.  The result will be a greater contribution to a cleaner environment to support you and your family’s health and a lesser risk of developing health issues.

John Norlin and the All Points Home Inspection team can help make sure your home and appliances are in tip-top shape. Check out all our Primary Home Inspection Areas to learn more.

Sources

Carolina Country Magazine, Jan. 2021, Pg 17 

https://apolloheatingandair.com/what-type-of-hvac-filter-do-i-need-and-how-often-should-i-change-it/

https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/interior-remodel/10-best-plants-for-cleaning-indoor-air-pictures

Carolina Country Magazine, May 2022, Pg. 20 

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