To raise awareness about the importance of lung health, The Lung Association has designated November as National Lung Month. As Ottawa’s heating, cooling and IAQ (indoor air quality) specialists, Team Harding wants to raise awareness about the importance of your indoor air quality and ways to improve it to promote a happy and healthy environment.
Kitchen
- Keep the kitchen dry from moisture and leaks. Standing water can lead to mould growth which decreases indoor air quality. Fix any leaks promptly and use exhaust hoods that vent outside.
- Choose “green” cleaning products in the kitchen that contain less toxic chemicals. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are found in many household cleaners and contribute to indoor air pollution.
- VOCs are also found in pressed wood cabinets, panelling and floors. If you’re considering a kitchen renovation, ask about the formaldehyde content and off-gassing concerns of products before installing.
Bathroom
- Always use a bathroom exhaust fan when showering or cleaning to expel moisture and help prevent mould and mildew growth.
- Keep the shower door (or curtain) open after showering to encourage complete drying.
Bedroom
- Clean floors and linens often with “green” cleaners to clear the area of dust mites.
- Use a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner to trap allergens (especially dander from any pets).
- If pets sleep in your room, ensure that they are bathed/groomed regularly.
- Pillows should be replaced regularly as they are often the source of dust mites.
Basement
- Check furnace filters monthly and replace as needed. Filters can trap allergens and dust before they’re circulated throughout your home.
- Ensure that you’re using filters that fit your needs and are compatible with your furnace. Contact Team Harding if you need advice finding the right filter for your home.
- Schedule yearly furnace maintenance to ensure that your heating system is working safely and efficiently.
Depending on your specific needs, there are a number of products that can significantly increase your indoor air quality. Humidifiers, purifiers, filtration and ventilation systems can be installed in conjunction with your current heating and cooling system to ensure the air you and your family are breathing every day is as healthy as it can be.
Harding Heating & Air Conditioning has been Ottawa’s leading home comfort specialists since 1994. We are a family owned and operated local business and all of our installers and technicians are fully licensed.
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