While most people think of air pollution as something that comes from power plants and factories, the truth is that the more threatening form of air pollution comes from inside your home. You can protect your family from both forms of air pollution with a few easy-to-learn steps.
Indoors
Reducing indoor air pollution starts with the products you purchase for your home. What you may not realize is that the very furniture and flooring may contain pollutants that may harm you and your family.
Avoid Products with Scents: Cleaners, air fresheners, and other products that contain scents may contain particles that interact with the ozone and create formaldehyde. Use natural cleaners if possible, such as lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, and plain water to reduce air pollution in the home.
Green Label: Look for the green label when purchasing carpets, cushions, and products that have adhesive elements. Such products may contain formaldehyde and residues of dangerous chemicals that can create indoor air pollution.
The same is true for furniture and other furnishings that are made from composite wood such as particle board or even plywood. Such materials use adhesives that may contain trace amounts of harmful chemicals. Look for such products that are compliant with green or safe standards.
Reduce Ozone: Certain products such as laundry water treatments, fruit and vegetable washers, and hair and facial applications emit ozone into the air. Look for products that are ozone-free and will not contribute to pollution indoors.
Ventilate: If you are painting, gluing, or using caulk, or other adhesive try to perform the work outside the home if possible. If you have no choice, such as painting a room, then open the windows, turn on the fan, and ventilate the area.
Outdoors
Although the threat may be less today compared to a half-century ago, there are still plenty of sources that cause outdoor air pollution. What follows are a few tips to protect your family and home in case outdoor pollution rises to dangerous levels.
Air Purifier: An air purifier can trap particles such as smoke while cleaning the indoor air from dust and other items. Remember to change out your air purifier’s filter when needed so that it works at maximum efficiency. Air purifiers are best used in bedrooms and living areas.
Central Air Conditioning: A central air conditioning system is not only more energy efficient for cooling the home compared to window units, but the air filter can also trap many of the particles that otherwise make it into your home. Be sure to change the air filter every few months or when needed. Otherwise, it may tax the unit to the point of requiring repair.
Windows Closed: This may seem to be an obvious response, but shutting the windows should be the first thing you do in case outdoor air pollution becomes too dangerous. Use portable fans to circulate the air inside the home.
With these tips, you can protect your home and family from both indoor and outdoor air pollution. A few commonsense steps will reduce indoor air pollution and limit outdoor air pollution from entering your residence.
Contact Brickley Environmental Today
With numerous dangers facing your home or business, calling the professionals at Brickley Environmental is a good place to start. We offer our knowledge and experience along with the tools to detect and remove infestations of various types. The services provided by Brickley Environmental include the following.
- Asbestos Abatement
- Mold Remediation
- Lead-Based Paint Removal
- Demolition
- Hazardous Waste Removal
If you are facing any of these issues, call Brickley Environmental today. Our friendly, courteous staff will take your call and answer your questions, so you can make the best-informed decision about what to do next. At Brickley Environmental, we are here to help you.