How is the air quality in your home? This is a question that we should all be asking ourselves, especially since we're moving towards winter.
What is indoor air quality?
Indoor air quality refers to the cleanliness of the air of any insulated structure, such as an office building, home, museum, etc.
Any substance that threatens to contaminate the air is called a pollutant, such as smoke, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, lead, and ozone emissions.
During the winter, indoor air equality is 5 times more polluted than outdoor air quality because the windows are always closed, and the heat is always on.
Understandably, you want to protect your loved ones from these pollutants, and we at eVacuumStore want to give you some actionable tips on how to do just that.
1. Air Purifiers
Hinted in the name, an air purifier is a product that reduces and removes harmful pollutants from the air. Some air purifiers are designed specifically to meet the needs of those who suffer from allergies, asthma or have pets. For example, the Austin Air Pet Machine HM 410 Air Purifier utilizes a 2-stage HEPA filtration system to eliminate 99.97% of harmful particles as well as circulate clean air throughout your home. To find out which air purifier is right for you, check out our user-friendly comparison charts by clicking the hyperlink.
2.Electric Fireplaces
Wood stoves are a great way to save money, but, unfortunately, they also negatively impact your indoor air quality. The wood you bring in from the outside easily chips off, and as a result, microscopic particles enter the air. Even worse, smoke gets emitted into the air every time you light a fire or open the door to put another log on. This smoke decreases your lung function, increases the severity of any existing lung or heart conditions, irritates the eyes, triggers headaches, and prolongs allergy and asthma symptoms. Why? Wood smoke contains carbon monoxide, a toxic, colorless gas that can be lethal if exposed to a high amount with no ventilation.
To save your health and protect your home from unwanted dirt and debris, eVacuumStore suggests you purchase a portable electric fireplace to keep you warm this winter. For example, the HeatSurge Roll-n-Glow and Amish Efficiency models come equipped with a Hi-Def LED Fireless flame, 360-degree cooling vents, and are safe to the touch. You never have to worry about toxic emissions. You never have to worry about your children being burnt by the mantle, and you can effortlessly transport your HeatSurge model from room to room. What could be better?
3. Bundle Up
EPA Approved Tips
Test for radon
Stop smoking
Use non-toxic cleaning products
Check and replace furnace filters
Vacuum regularly
Install and check CO alarms
Prevent mold
According to the EPA, high temperatures, such as those emitted from heaters, can increase the concentrations of some pollutants in your home. With that being said, it's important to turn your heat off for some portion of the day and open the windows to allow some fresh air to penetrate your home. Wrap yourself in a blanket and watch a movie. Those one or two hours without the heat should fly by!
Overall, the above tips mentioned all fall under EPA's three basic strategies to improving indoor air quality, which include source control, improved ventilation, and air cleaners. If you or a loved one has a question on how they can improve indoor air quality this winter, please feel free to contact our customer service department at 1-866-972-8227.