Poor indoor air quality is a serious issue that affects the health and comfort of millions of Americans. NIEHS reports that Americans spend as much as 90% of our time indoors.
Fortunately, there are many ways to improve the air quality in your home. Read on to find out the three most important factors.
1. Low-VOC paints, finishes, and flooring.
Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs are chemicals in everyday items that get released into the air as the materials break down. VOCs can be released by various sources, including adhesives and finishes used in many types of flooring. They’re also emitted by furniture, furnishings, paints, and other interior products.
VOCs have been linked to various health issues in humans. Though it is difficult to pinpoint exactly which chemicals have which specific effect, the total effect of these chemicals seems to lead to lower health outcomes, and can have more immediate effects like aggravating allergies and asthma.
Using specially formulated materials and paints that are low in VOCs can improve your indoor air quality quite a bit.
2. Externally vented exhausts.
If your home has internally vented furnaces (which means there are no ducts), then make sure all vents go straight outside.
This is because ducts are often made of materials that can trap contaminants and cause them to recirculate in your home. If you have an externally vented exhaust, make sure it’s not venting through an attic or wall with windows or doors that open into an unenclosed space. Externally vented exhausts must also be at least 6 feet away from any window or door so that air doesn’t rush back into the house when someone opens them.
3. Fresh air system.
A fresh air system is a good option to ventilate your home with fresh air without opening the windows. They’re also helpful if you have a large home and want to ensure that each room gets adequate ventilation. These systems work by drawing in fresh air from outside through an air filter, which then distributes it throughout your house.
Fresh air systems can be installed in any room of your home, and they’ll help improve indoor air quality by keeping the air circulating. They’re also great at clearing out odors caused by cooking or pets!
Indoor air quality is as important as outdoor air quality, so it’s worth investing in.
At Manchester Green Homes, we build all of our homes to the highest standards for indoor air quality, meaning that your Green Home will be both comfortable and free from pollutants.