Breathe Easy: A Homebuyer’s Guide to Improving Indoor Air Quality

Buying a home is a huge step, and while you may be focused on paint colors and kitchen countertops, don’t forget something crucial: the air you breathe. Indoor air quality matters, impacting your health and well-being. Luckily, improving indoor air quality is often easier than you think. Let’s explore some key areas.

Understanding Your Home’s Air

Before you start making changes, get to know your home’s air. Think about potential sources of pollution. Older homes might have asbestos or lead paint, while newer homes could off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from building materials. Do you have pets? Allergies? These factors play a role. Have a professional indoor air quality assessment done. This will identify specific pollutants and help you create a targeted improvement plan. Even without a professional assessment, you can take proactive steps.

Ventilation: The Key to Fresh Air

Proper ventilation is paramount. It’s how you bring fresh air in and exhaust stale, polluted air. Open windows regularly, even for short periods, to create cross-breezes. Make sure your kitchen and bathrooms have working exhaust fans, and use them! These fans help remove moisture and cooking fumes, preventing mold growth and reducing airborne particles. If your home is tightly sealed for energy efficiency, consider a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or an energy recovery ventilator (ERV). These systems bring in fresh air while minimizing energy loss.

Improving Indoor Air Quality With Filtration

Air filters are your allies in the fight against indoor pollutants. Furnace and air conditioning filters should be replaced regularly, at least every three months, or more frequently if you have pets or allergies. Upgrade to a higher Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating filter. A MERV rating indicates the filter’s ability to capture small particles. For those with sensitivities, a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter is a great option. HEPA filters can remove a high percentage of dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens. Portable air purifiers with these filters are also beneficial in specific rooms, like bedrooms or living areas.

Controlling Pollutant Sources

Addressing the sources of pollution is the most effective way to improve indoor air quality. Be mindful of the cleaning products you use. Opt for low-VOC or fragrance-free options whenever possible. The same goes for personal care products and air fresheners. Avoid smoking indoors.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes. Testing for radon is essential, and if levels are high, mitigation systems can be installed. If you’re renovating, choose low-VOC building materials like paints, flooring, and adhesives.

The Right Humidity Helps With Improving Indoor Air Quality

Maintaining proper humidity levels is another essential aspect of indoor air quality. High humidity promotes mold growth, while low humidity dries out your skin and nasal passages. Aim for a relative humidity between 30% and 50%. A hygrometer will help you monitor humidity levels. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements or bathrooms. In dry climates, a humidifier adds moisture to the air.

Improving your home’s indoor air quality isn’t complicated. By following these tips, you can create a healthier and more comfortable environment for you and your family.