Indoor Air Quality Tips for a Healthier Home

Ever wonder why your house sometimes feels stale or makes you cough? Bad indoor air quality (IAQ) is usually the culprit, and it’s something you can fix without big expenses. The air inside your home is affected by how you cook, heat, and clean, plus the condition of your appliances. Let’s break down the basics and give you practical steps you can start today.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

Good IAQ isn’t just about comfort – it affects your health. Dust, mold spores, and chemicals from cooking or cleaning can irritate lungs, trigger allergies, and even worsen asthma. Appliances like boilers, water heaters, and dryers release moisture or tiny particles if they’re not maintained. Over time, that moisture breeds mold, and mold spores travel through the whole house. Keeping IAQ in check means fewer sick days and a more pleasant living space.

Simple Steps to Improve Your Home’s Air

1. Ventilate while you cook. Gas stoves and even electric ovens can put pollutants into the air. Turn on your extractor fan or open a window every time you use the hob. If your fan is slow or noisy, have it inspected – a clean motor works better and lasts longer.

2. Check and clean your extractor fans. Fans in the kitchen and bathroom trap grease and humidity. A quick once‑a‑year cleaning of the fan blades and motor can boost airflow and stop foul smells. If the fan sputters, replace the motor or call a local technician.

3. Keep humidity in check. A damp house invites mold. Use a dehumidifier in basements or bathrooms, and wipe down wet surfaces after showers. If you notice condensation on windows, it’s a sign the air is too moist.

4. Maintain heating and water‑heating appliances. Sediment build‑up in water heaters and dirty filters in boilers reduce efficiency and can release metallic particles. Regular service (once a year) keeps them running clean and cuts down on unwanted emissions.

5. Change HVAC and fridge filters. Filters collect dust and allergens; a clogged filter pushes them back into the room. Swap out filters according to the manufacturer’s schedule – usually every 3‑6 months.

6. Use low‑VOC paints and cleaners. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) evaporate from many household products. Choose paints, sealants, and cleaners labeled “low VOC” to lower chemical exposure.

Putting these habits into a routine doesn’t take much time. A few minutes each week to clean fans, check filters, and open a window while cooking can dramatically improve the air you breathe.

Remember, good indoor air quality starts with small, consistent actions. If you suspect a bigger problem – persistent musty smells, constant coughing, or a noisy boiler – don’t wait. Call a trusted repair service to inspect your appliances and ventilation system. A healthy home is a happy home, and better air is the easiest upgrade you can make.