If you have older loved ones, you’re probably seeking methods to enhance their quality of life. Senior citizens, including those in Easton, MD, are typically more vulnerable to the harmful side effects of poor indoor air quality. Fortunately, there are various methods to enhance their quality of O2.
Humidity Adjustments
Making humidity adjustments is one way to improve indoor air quality for older family members. In drier climates, adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can help prevent respiratory problems. Lower humidity levels can cause mucous membranes in the nose and throat to become dried out and cracked, which makes them more susceptible to infection.
Ensuring your home has the proper humidity level will help prevent these issues. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you must keep your indoor humidity level between 30% and 50%.
Inspect the Filters
Filters help to capture dust, pollen, and other allergens, which can help improve air quality. If they can’t do their job, that could lead to poor IAQ. Overall, ensure they’re clean and clog-free.
It’s important to check your filters regularly and replace them when dirty. Ensure they’re also the right size for your home and HVAC system. Have questions about air filters? Talk to a seasoned HVAC service technician. They’ll assist you with finding the best solutions for your home and family.
Upgrade Your Air Conditioner
Replacing an outdated air conditioner is a great way to improve indoor air quality for older family members. New and improved AC systems help remove humidity from the air, which can help prevent asthma and other respiratory issues.They also keep the temperature cool, which can be helpful for older people who are sensitive to heat.
Vacuum and Dust Regularly
Particles in the air can trigger allergies and asthma attacks, so removing them as much as possible is essential. Vacuuming and dusting regularly will help eliminate allergens and other particles in the air. You can also use air cleaners to reduce the number of sneaky pollutants further.
Additionally, make sure to keep your house clean and free of clutter to reduce the amount of dust in the air. Lastly, open the windows regularly to let in the fresh air. As a note, make sure to turn off your AC before opening the windows. Always keep energy efficiency in the back of your mind. Your wallet will thank you in the end!
Keep Plants in the Home
Adding plants to your home is a great way to improve air quality. Not only do they add some natural beauty, but they also help filter out harmful toxins from the air. If you have elderly family members living with you, keeping plants around can be beneficial in improving their ability to breathe cleaner air.
Here are a few tips for choosing the right plants:
- Look for low-maintenance varieties that don’t require much care.
- Choose plants that are effective at filtering out toxins.
- Avoid placing plants in areas with dust or other airborne particles.
- Keep the plants healthy by regularly watering and pruning them.
Reducing the Use of Harsh Chemicals Indoors
Using certain chemicals indoors can cause various health problems for older family members, including respiratory issues and skin irritation. By reducing the use of these products, you can help improve indoor air quality and keep your loved ones healthy. A few examples include using natural cleaning products, opening the windows to allow fresh air, and using ventilation systems.
If you or an elderly loved one is experiencing symptoms like asthma, allergies, or headaches, it might be time to investigate the quality of your indoor O2. Contact Griffith Energy Services today and let us help improve your indoor air quality.
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