How to Controll Indoor Air Pollution

Inside air quality can be improved with fans and other methods.

Indoor air quality is often poor and can cause health problems such as asthma, pneumonitis, dizziness, nausea, headaches and general discomfort. Oftentimes, people don't realize what is causing these symptoms and assume that they are just sick. The poor air quality can be caused by smoking, poor ventilation, asbestos, carbon monoxide, mold and other pollutants. There are ways to help improve the quality of air in an indoor space.

Instructions

1. Run an air-cleaning machine. These are specially made to improve the quality of indoor air and can be purchased at most department and hardware stores. They work by using a filtering system to circulate the air while removing impurities.

2. Eliminate the source of pollutants. This can include not smoking inside--or making sure the area is very well-ventilated--and removing asbestos or mold.

3. Improve ventilation by keeping windows and doors open when possible. You can also add fans to the room to increase air flow and keep contaminants out. Running an air conditioner, weather permitting, can also improve the quality of the air.

4. Clean the space regularly. Many pollutants can be removed through regular cleaning including dusting, vacuuming and washing bedding.

5. Avoid trapping in pollutants. If you are painting, accidentally burn food, or are using harsh cleaning chemicals such as bleach, be sure that you open all doors and windows so these contaminants have the ability to leave the area.

References

• EPA: Indoor Air Quality
• NC State: Indoor Air Quality