We here about air pollution and the negative impact it has on our health a lot these days. The media outlets like television, newspaper and radio even have a pollution index to rate how safe it is to breathe outside each day. But do you ever consider indoor air quality? The air you breathe at work, at home and inside other places. 

 

The indoor air quality of the place you spend the most time, presumably home or work, is an important factor to consider, especially if you're dealing with any health problems. No matter if you're inside or outside the air you breathe can make you sick, if it's unhealthy and polluted. 

 

Many people suffer needlessly with poor indoor air quality resulting in asthma, chronic upper respiratory problems, allergies, poor sleep and even poor appetite. If you're not getting healthy, pure air into your body then just about every body function can suffer.

 

 

Antiquated heating systems and dirty duct work are major contributors to poor indoor air quality. This is especially true if you use indoor forced air systems like heat and air conditioning. 

 

 

The first place to start is to analyze the indoor air quality of your home and work. There are companies that can help with this or you can purchase kits at the local hardware store to begin the process.

 

Next, if you detect a problem clean house from the bottom up. Depending on the results you may need professional assistance for radon and other more serious issues. If your heating system intakes air from a basement make sure that area is clean and free of mold, mildew and other common contaminants. 

 

Then check out the duct systems. Although a really dirty duct system can be easy to detect at times, others hide potentially sickly pollutants. There are numerous duct cleaning companies and you can usually have your entire duct system cleaned for a reasonable price.

 

Make sure you get to know your heat system and change the filters regularly. Do your research and spend a little more on the filters that remove allergens and the like. But remember, regular changing of the filter is key, no matter the type you use. 

 

Carpets, linoleum floors, furniture and other common household products potentially emit hundreds of toxic chemicals into the air at home (and office) ultimately compromising the indoor air quality. Once you've covered the basics discussed above, dig into this. Do you have new carpets, or furniture? They may be loaded with toxic flame retardants and other chemicals poisoning your air. Contact the manufacturer if you suspect this and find out exactly what's in and on your household products. 

 

 

Household products like furniture, carpets, and the like are assumed to be safe – this really isn't the case. Also, look at what you're cleaning with at home and at work. Many household cleaning products unknowingly expose you to toxins and pollutants. Opt for all natural cleaning products that keep your health as well as the future of Mother Nature in mind.

 

The indoor air quality of your home and work are vital to know if you want to be healthy. We breath air every few seconds making certain that air is the healthiest and highest indoor air quality is important to keep yourself and your family health and happy.