WHAT CAN I DO MYSELF TO ENHANCE MY HOMES AIR QUALITY?

There is a common belief that the air outside your front door is much worse to breathe than the air inside your home. But, as studies show, the air inside your home may also come with health implications. How did your indoor air get dirtier than your laundry? Think of fumes off-gassed by furniture, paint and building materials, chemicals from household cleaning products and fragrances, combustion devises, dust, bacteria and mold. These are all common culprits of poor home air quality.

When you consider that we spend most of our time indoors, this is a big problem. But it can be especially debilitating for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Here are some simple solutions to improve your home air quality—many of which are quick, easy and affordable.

Tip#1: Air it out
Open a window to air out harmful chemicals and let cleaner, healthier air in! Even if it’s for a few minutes a day, it’s one of the simplest (and most affordable) things you can do to improve your home air quality. You can also turn on a ceiling or portable fan while windows are open to recirculate household air and push out stale air.

Tip #2: Use non-toxic household cleaning products
Traditional household cleaning products are one of the leading contributors to poor home air quality. Your home is not a science experiment. Rather than spend money on household cleaning products, look no further than your pantry for ingredients that possess natural cleaning prowess. Ingredients such as baking soda, white distilled vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, tea tree oil, hot water, coarse salt, and castile soap all do a bang-up job without spewing harmful chemicals in your home.

If you prefer something in a bottle, don’t just trust what they tell you on the label. Do some research before you buy. Look for products that tap into plant-based ingredients for cleaning power without artificial dyes and/or fragrances to better your home air quality. And remember, traditionally, the fewer ingredients on the label, the better.

Read more about making your own natural cleaners

Tip #3: Invest in healthy houseplants
Believe it or not, there are some plants that act as renegade air filters by sucking up harmful chemicals that rest in your air and pumping out fresh oxygen. Not just any plant will do. A study conducted in part by NASA found that a handful of plants are particularly skilled at eating up some of the more harmful chemicals: formaldehyde, benzene and carbon monoxide to name a few. Here are a few of the top plants that proved to be most effective at removing harmful chemicals:

• Bamboo Palm – Dypsis lutescens
• English Ivy – Hedera helix
• Gerbera Daisy – Gerbera jamesonii
• Janet Craig Dracaena – Dracaena deremensis ‘Janet Craig’
• Red Edged Dracaena – Dracaena marginata
• Mass cane/Corn Plant – Dracaena massangeana
• Warneckii Dracaena – Dracaena deremensis ‘Warneckii’
• Mother-in-Law’s Tongue – Sansevieria laurenti
• Pot Mum – Chrysantheium morifolium
• Peace Lily – Spathiphyllum species

Tip #4: Skip the scent
We are all guilty of associating fresh, aromatic scents with a clean home, but synthetic fragrance found in air fresheners, household cleaning products, detergents and candles infuses your air with harmful chemicals. Since the actual components of a fragrance are considered a “trade secret,” companies are only required to list the catch-all term “fragrance” on the label—but they are not required to disclose what they actually are4. In this case, the devil is in the details. A study conducted by Washington University found that nearly 100 volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) were emitted from six popular air fresheners. Of the 100 VOCs emitted, none were listed on the label and five of them released at least one (or more!) cancer-causing chemicals. Many fragrances have not been tested for human safety, and a group of plasticizers known as phthalates are commonly used to make the scent last longer. Phthalates have been linked to hormone disruption, cancer, and reproductive and developmental issues.

To protect your home air quality, look for household cleaning products, detergents and aerosol sprays that are fragrance-free or scented with 100 percent natural ingredients. You can also use essential oils, lemons, or baking soda to freshen up your home. Check out these recipes.

Tip #5: Buy safer furniture
Your furniture can off-gas VOCs, which can be highly toxic to human health. Conventional woods in furniture such as plywood and particleboard are fused with toxic glues that can contain formaldehyde and harmful chemicals, and are finished with paints, lacquers, and varnishes that contain even more harmful chemicals. These chemicals can be detrimental to those with allergies and asthma, while contributing to serious diseases like cancer. If you can, avoid buying furniture made from woods that have been treated with formaldehyde and look for furniture that was assembled with non-toxic glues and water-based or low to no-VOC finishes. Certifications like GREENGUARD also serve as a great guide by identifying products that have lower chemical emissions for better home air quality. Since healthier furniture can be more expensive, you can always buy second-hand—a good indication that the furniture has already done most of its off-gassing. You can also open a window for better air ventilation (See Tip #1).

Tip #6: Be picky about paint
Are you familiar with that funny odor that fills the room after you have freshly painted the walls? It makes you dizzy for a reason. Conventional paints can emit toxic fumes into your home over its life cycle . Look for safer paints that are labeled “Zero VOC or “Low-VOC.” The most ideal option is “Zero VOC, no toxics and no solvents,” which states that the canister of wall color does not contain any of the harmful chemicals found in traditional paints.

Tip #7: Invest in a HEPA filter vacuum
Carpets and floors can harbor chemicals and commons allergens, which accumulate in household dust. Vacuuming a few times a week is key, but cheap vacuums can just make matters worse. The problem with cheap vacuums is that they suction chemicals in, and then spew them back out in the exhaust to exacerbate poor home air quality. Purchase a vacuum with a true HEPA filter, which is capable of suctioning up dust, dirt and even the smallest irritants.

Looking to improve your home’s indoor air quality? Contact a Team Harding Specialist today!

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Shaniski
Shaniski
20:36 19 Jul 23
We have used them for warranty work on our new home build and have been happy with the after care service provided by Lindsay and Bob.
Chris Hawkins
Chris Hawkins
14:01 28 Mar 23
Repairman showed up on time and was very personable and professional. He had our furnace working again in under 10 minutes and explained what the problem was a dirty flame sensor. I would highly... recommend Team Harding, they installed our Furnace and Air Conditioner and have provided excellent service since 2007.read more
yuan zhang
yuan zhang
16:30 06 Feb 23
I changed the rate because the reaction from site office is extremely satisfy. I have no heat during the weekend and complained. I got a respond very quickly from their site office and find out the... reason of no respond. Then a new appoint was scheduled right way! Also a report has been filed towards this issue and I believe communication will be taken to improve future services. I really like this manner! Thank you.//I have no heat on the coldest day this winter. I called for service at 10:28am, and the office lady said someone will reach me ASAP. I called at 17:26pm again because NO ONE called me the whole day. And I was told there is a long list so THEY DON'T CARE! I HAVE TO WAIT! And this is a same problem happened second time in two years. Do not recommend.read more
Syd Curry
Syd Curry
12:04 01 Feb 23
Very professional, clean install. High quality product.Extremely pleased with overall experience. Highly recommend.
david whelehan
david whelehan
21:24 28 Jan 23
I had an extremely positive experience with Team Harding from beginning to end. I had them install a Sterling Model GG 45,000 BTU Natural Gas Garage Heater with a Nest Learning Thermostat in my... double garage (Man-Cave).The sales rep, Brian was professional, friendly, he wasn’t pushy at all and he came under budget. Kirsten constantly kept me up to date on the installer’s scheduling and was a true professional. The installers came on time, did a tremendous job with the installation and they even cleaned up afterwards. Absolute Rock Stars!Again, thank you so very much to everyone that worked on this project for me.I highly recommend using Team Harding for your home projects.read more
Dipesh Chhabra
Dipesh Chhabra
18:30 06 Jan 23
Great experience, technician Steve was very knowledgeable, Thankyou
Tina Thompson
Tina Thompson
21:07 30 Oct 22
We had issues with our air conditioner in the summer.Colin was diligent to determine the issue and get it fixed.Great job!
Brittney Rush
Brittney Rush
18:45 21 Oct 22
Friendly staff & efficient service!
Natasha Wright
Natasha Wright
17:16 21 Oct 22
Harding is an exceptional company that has always been there for all my HVAC needs.
Don Cumming
Don Cumming
20:10 14 Oct 22
I had a Daikin furnace installed by Harding Heating and Air Conditioning on Sept 9/22.I was totally impressed by the competence, knowledge and professionalism displayed by the Sales Rep Brian... Chartier, the Sales Support Specialist Kirsten Neumarker and the Installers Dan and Luc.I have no reservation in recommending this Company to anyone looking for a Furnace or Air Conditioner.read more
Jurgen Neumarker
Jurgen Neumarker
19:03 14 Oct 22
Harding was best decision we have ever made regarding our heating and A/C service. After switching from another company, we have not looked back. Service is reliable, punctual, professional and... friendly.read more
Charlene Van Hofwegen
Charlene Van Hofwegen
00:11 24 Aug 22
Thank you for a huge job very well done ! Marc went above and beyond to find the problem and remedy the situation.Natasha, thank you for scheduling us in quickly and a big thanks to Marc who worked... tirelessly to get the job completed.read more
Eric Lavoie
Eric Lavoie
13:48 25 Jul 22
I purchased a new home that Harding mechanical install the full system, the first week I took possession an advisor came over to explain the system in details, I have never had 1 issue with this... equipment and installation. In the past 5 years, I have hired Harding mehcanial for my annual maintenance and filter replacement, I just pick up the phone and talk to a live person and get quick answer. I have never met an HVAC company that operates this way, very efficient. Thank you for the amazing service and I will keep on referring family and friends to your company.read more
Georgie Lavoie
Georgie Lavoie
01:28 22 Jul 22
This company installed a new air conditioner at my house and came over quickly and made sure I was satisfied, they called me the following day to make sure I understood everything and that my unit... was working at full capacity.I highly recommend this company, great technician and service from front office to install crew. Thanks and unit working fine especially during this heat wave.read more
Shawn Ku
Shawn Ku
00:57 24 Jun 22
Harding Heating & Air Conditioning were excellent. We had an issue with our furnace fan and I spoke to Natasha Wright (Service Coordinator) who first tried to troubleshoot the problem with me to... save costs, etc. Once that didn't work, a technician, Marc Gagon, attended. He quickly diagnosed the problem (faulty control board), but didn't stop there. He investigated the source - water under the AC coils. Further, he went outside to ensure the A/C unit was working properly. Marc Gagon is very professional, competent and took the time to explain things. He is a asset to Harding Heating & Air Conditioning, along with Natasha Wright. I highly recommend this company for your heating and a/c needs. Shawnread more
Tim C.
Tim C.
21:43 29 Jan 22
Brenden from Harding came and fixed the furnace by replacing the blower. He did a great job. And also well explained the membership plan. 10 out of 10.
Pam Burwash
Pam Burwash
18:14 16 Jul 21
From the very start the quotes I received were very fair. The estimator took the time assess the work that would need to be done and walked me through all the options. My furnace and AC were... installed by a polite, professional crew who also took the time to ensure that I was satisfied with the equipment being installed.Team Harding was there for me during a heat wave. I am thoroughly impressed with their professionalism.read more
Galina Khavrenko
Galina Khavrenko
15:17 15 Jul 21
Got Harding H&AC to deliver and install 2 AC units.Everything was fast, affordable and their customer service is 24/7 for you.
Tim Cinnamon
Tim Cinnamon
18:28 30 Jun 21
We had Brodie and Marc out to our cottage to install a heat pump and they did a fantastic job. Professional, very efficient, clean and knowledgeable. We would definitely use them again in the future.
Lifebeyondpanicattacks
Lifebeyondpanicattacks
04:02 29 Jun 21
Lindsay is a gem, she saved us money and time in this heat wave by fixing our problem over the phone. She went above and beyond her job with her kindness and expertise. We've used Harding multiple... times and have always had the best results! And awesome company with wonderful employees, especially Lindsay!!!read more
Wayne Calvert
Wayne Calvert
19:10 05 Feb 21
Woke up this morning with no heat in the house. Within a couple of hours a Harding service technician was at the door and was able to replace the blower unit in less than 20 minute restoring heat to... my home. Just want to state that the service was great and the staff were professional and friendly.I'm glad I've been with Harding for the past 8 years,...here's to many more.Great job!read more
Amanda
Amanda
20:24 20 Jan 21
Excellent customer service and friendly staff!
Vince Petrella
Vince Petrella
20:59 09 Nov 20
Provided a great and honest service at a reasonable price. I would use their services again in the future.
Gerry Moore
Gerry Moore
13:33 30 Oct 20
Harding Heating and Air Conditioning installed our Furnace and Air Conditioning when we purchased or new home in 2011. We have enjoyed excellent service from them for the last 9 years. We would not... hesitate in using their company again in the future.read more
Sketchyinkblot
Sketchyinkblot
22:02 03 Oct 20
We’ve used Harding for 6+ years and they always exceed our expectations. Friendly staff, knowledgeable technicians and reasonable prices. We couldn’t ask for better. They installed the ac unit at our... first house and anytime we needed them the service calls were great. We bought a new house July 2019. It wasn’t long after that we were told we needed a new furnace and ac. We went withHarding...obviously.read more
Paul
Paul
21:59 15 Aug 20
Fair price, good follow up. Appreciated!
Lisa Pow
Lisa Pow
14:49 29 May 20
Brendon was great
Tyler Lagasse
Tyler Lagasse
23:51 24 May 20
Showed up on time, and on a sunday! Very impressed with this company!
Trish Lagasse
Trish Lagasse
18:57 24 May 20
Harding just installed the AC in my home during a pandemic on a Sunday. Charbel was very nice to deal with and he was very responsive. Would recommend this company to anyone...very happy customer.
Kim Peckitt
Kim Peckitt
14:29 23 Jan 20
Routine maintenance but professional and courteous technician as always
Anne Bauer
Anne Bauer
01:08 24 Nov 19
Excellent service from Colin this evening. I placed a service call at 5pm and by 8pm, a new blower motor was installed. Thank you very much! Highly recommend Harding!
Don Donaldson
Don Donaldson
20:18 29 Jul 19
Even though we had an on-going issue with our Amana Distinctions AC that was originally installed in June 2012, Harding's team stood behind their product and went out of their way to extend service... without any question about warranty. It was a pleasure to deal with their inside staff as well as two installers that are top-notch. Thanks Steve, Brendan and Megan for superlative service!read more
Jean St-Amour
Jean St-Amour
16:44 08 May 19
Harding installed our new A/C, replacing our 25 years old Lennox.From the beginning of the process to the end of the installation, everything went smoothly.Communication with the main office for... the estimate and the installation schedule was done properly and on time, thanks to Kirsten.The technicians were on time and completed the installation as per scheduling.Both technicians (Mike & Brennan) were very polite and answered all our questions,Very knowledgeable and professional technicians.Overall we are very happy of the work doneWe have no problem to recommend Harding.read more
Steve Piercey
Steve Piercey
14:32 22 Nov 18
We have a 28 year old air-source heat pump that needed some TLC.Harding sent their tech out to diagnose, and provide options and pricing. Very reasonable.Exterior unit needed a new fan motor.... Within a few days an installer came and installed new motor, but made a slight error, and it was rotating the wrong way. Quick call had it corrected. Further found our defrost board was faulty. Harding provided quote upfront for a replacement aftermarket board. Kept in contact as to timeline and expected deliver and installation date.Tech came on-site as promised, did the install, and stayed to make sure unit was cycling properly. Billed for the quoted amount.Harding delivers what's promised, when promised, at quoted price. And has staff who know what they're looking at.Hard to ask for more from an HVAC service provider.read more
Zayan Khandker
Zayan Khandker
05:20 16 Nov 18
Reached the emergency hotline for a furnace issue. Understandably they were very busy on a snowy evening but Eli managed to drop by just before midnight to get it working!
Tom Anderson
Tom Anderson
14:46 18 Jun 18
Great air conditioner price and installation!
Mike Chaytor
Mike Chaytor
23:00 27 Mar 18
Our hot water tank basically blew up after 14 years (my bad for waiting so long). Brian was able to come by within a couple of hours and give us a fair quote, found a tank and coordinated the... install the next day (black vent pipe had to be replaced due to the code changing the colour to white). Install crew showed up on time and completed the job in a very professional manner. Thanks againread more
Lawrence Cynthia Ko
Lawrence Cynthia Ko
22:43 22 Mar 18
Service is always great and with slight occasional follow-ups needed on the customer service calls, but the customer service and service people are great. They arrived promptly and easily fixed the... furnace issue we had as per scheduled. The defective part had to be ordered, but took only a day plus, and it was installed and working the next day, so now the house is warm again. Great service, that's why we've been with this service company since nearly 17 years. Highly recommend this furnace servicing company.read more
Shawn & Veronica
Shawn & Veronica
20:04 08 Jan 18
We just had some furnace issues and we were able to get an appointment the same day. The technician was prompt, polite and took NO time in finding the problem and fixing it. Reasonable pricing too.... Highly recommended.read more
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