October is Indoor Air Quality Month

Halloween isn’t the only thing we should celebrate in October. October is National Indoor Air Quality Month, and several states, including North Dakota, Michigan, and Montana are celebrating by spreading the word about the dangers of harmful indoor and outdoor air contaminants.

Seasonal changes often result in higher incidences of allergy problems and illnesses. Pollen is prevalent in the spring, and fall opens the door for ragweed. Asthma, often caused by air pollution, is a growing epidemic among children and adults, resulting in missed school and work days, emergency room visits, and in extreme cases, even death.

The quality of the air deserves way more attention than it currently receives. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, people spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. Though many people are aware of contaminants such as mold, tobacco smoke, and carbon monoxide, they may not be fully aware of just how dangerous our indoor environment can be. It is important to raise awareness and educate others on how they can reduce indoor air pollution.

Here are 11 ways you can improve your indoor air quality:

1. Get air quality data based on where you live.
2. Avoid smoking and secondhand tobacco smoke.
3. Remove your shoes before walking inside your home.
4. Regularly change the A/C filters. Air filters with a higher MERV rating are more efficient at removing microscopic particles.
5. Invest in an air purifier with a HEPA filter and place it in a room where you spend the most time.
6. Have your air conditioning ducts cleaned and maintained regularly.
7. Run exhaust fans regularly to help increase ventilation in your home. Don’t forget to regularly change your microwave filters or hood range filters too!
8. Use a HEPA vacuum cleaner and change the vacuum filter regularly.
9. Clean furniture regularly especially if you have pets in your home.
10. Use non-toxic household cleaning products.
11. Use hypoallergenic bedding.

Like any other national holiday, the month of October is a time for recognition and remembrance – specifically the recognition of the importance of the air we breathe. Let FiltersFast.com help you create a healthy home today!