Winter Health and Air Quality Tips
Sunday, December 18th, 2016 | Categories: Commercial Inspections, Indoor Air Quality, Mold Solutions, Toxic Mold,Indoor Air Quality | No Comments
Winter Health and Indoor Air Quality Tips
As the colder weather is upon us and days grow shorter the time we spend indoors longer.
Along with extended indoor time comes respiratory health risks and exposure to more particulates.
Here are typical changes we find in our clients homes November to March in East Tennessee.
PROBLEM AREAS:
- Air gets dryer as temperatures drop and furnaces run most of the day. Dry air exposes our lungs, skin and nasal cavities to chemicals used in cleaning, dust and skin danders.
- Pets typically spend more time indoors and increase levels of fur and dander substantially.
- Doors and windows are closed and homes and offices are “winterized” to control energy costs. Reduction of fresh outside air allows indoor pollutant levels to build quickly.
- Fumes and smoke from candles and fireplaces increase soot and potentially harmful Carbon Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide levels.
- Bacteriological levels and colds and flus can rapidly pass from one family member to another.
- Mold growths from undiscovered leaks grow rapidly due to warm conditions inside the building.
HELPFUL TIPS:
Joy To The World!
- Change the air filters in the heating system every few weeks instead of every few months. Use good quality pleated filters with high efficiency ratings.
- Have the heating system inspected including the unit, air ducts and diffusers professionally inspected.
- Avoid dry winter air (below 30% relative humidity) by installing small humidifiers in main living areas and bed rooms to increase everyones comfort. Warning! Keep the units clean and never leave water in the humidifiers reservoirs when not in use.
- Dial back the furnace to keep temperatures lower. Most folks are ok with temperatures in the mid to upper 60 degree range.
- Use exhaust fans in the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry rooms when in use and for 30 minutes after use.
- Keep candle usage to a minimum and make sure your fireplaces have been inspected every year and that they are in “ tip top” condition.
- Bathe cats and dogs every week or so to reduce dander and other allergens.
- Keep pets out of the bedrooms of family members that have sensitivities to them.
- Dust and use HEPA vacuums on a weekly basis.
- Avoid using high VOC cleaning products like bleach based products and air fresheners that can pollute indoor air.
- Postpone home improvement projects that will create dust and on require painting or staining.
- Inspect all ares of the home or office for mold growths in hidden or out of the way places like basements, crawl spaces, dishwashers, kitchens and bathrooms.
TAKE ACTION:
If you suspect that your family members or employees are suffering from indoor air quality issues contact a professional to get a through inspection and air testing.
Volunteer Mold and Indoor Air Quality provides full professional inspections and testing to keep folks like you safe and comfortable at home and work.
Contact us at 865 385-0170 via text or phone and visit our web site www.volunteermold.com for current information on health issues and our services.
Visit our FaceBook page www.facebook.com/volunteermold/ and like just to get our regular blogs with tips to keep you healthy and safe indoors all year.
