4 Ways to Keep Indoor Air Quality Consistent During Winter in Greenwood-Aiken
Indoor air quality is a genuine cause for concern throughout the year. The problem can be amplified in winter as people take shelter indoors with windows shut. Unfortunately, poor air quality can significantly impact our health, especially among young children and seniors.
Maintaining better indoor air quality in your home this winter is essential. Here are four great ideas that anyone can implement.
1. Have a Proper HVAC System to Improve Indoor Air Quality
The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is a piece of valuable home equipment, especially during those cold winter nights. However, if it's running poorly, it can impact the home's air quality.
Ensure that your residence has a working and updated HVAC system to allow all family members, including seniors, to enjoy the holiday without the risk of falling ill. Some essential tips for ensuring the HVAC system operates efficiently throughout winter include:
- Changing the air filter and cleaning the vents, which should be replaced every three months, cleaned, and checked monthly;
- Replacing the HVAC system if they are old and outdated;
- Completely insulating the attic to help the HVAC system to operate at peak performance; and
- Ensuring the system is inspected annually to prepare it for the demands of winter.
The U.S. Department of Energy website offers a list of helpful instructions to help homeowners find the perfect HVAC contractor for their home needs.
2. Keep the Home Smoke-Free
Smoking in any weather condition is hazardous but can pose more risk during the colder seasons. If you have a senior who smokes, it's important to have them make an effort to cut back on smoking until they can comfortably get to an open space. Additionally, if they live with a smoker, have them try to quit or cut back on smoking while sharing the house.
Secondary-hand cigarette smoking is a harmful source of indoor pollution. Therefore, making the shared space a smoke-free zone is essential. Cigarette smoke, even through passive smoking, can adversely affect lung function, cause adult-onset asthma, or result in heart problems.
3. Run Kitchen or Bathroom Exhaust Fans
Running a kitchen or bathroom exhaust fan can be a nuisance because of the grating sound. However, it's essential when it comes to keeping indoor air clean. This process can help clean stale and humid air, improving indoor air quality.
Seniors are most affected by poor indoor air quality, so have their caregiver run the exhaust fans for 20 minutes after a shower or when the home feels humid to draw out the stale air from the house and draw in the fresh air.
4. Limit Scented Items
Most people love scented candles, diffusers, and air fresheners because they bring a beautiful aroma to the house. The problem with artificial scents is that they contribute to poor air quality in the house. Some scented products contain harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as toluene, benzene, or formaldehyde that are hazardous to your health. In addition, most cleaning products contain VOCs.
In warm weather, you can open the windows to allow fresh air to circulate after a thorough cleaning with harsh products--- a luxury you can't afford during winter. Opt for mild cleaning products such as baking soda and vinegar to keep your indoor air quality during winter. And to make your home smell amazing with natural products such as cinnamon, lemon, or coffee.
Experience Consistent Home Care Service in Greenwood
Senior Helpers with franchise serving areas in Aiken, Greenwood, North Augusta, Chapin, Newberry, and Leesville provide in-home care services for seniors. Our services include companion and personal care from skilled caregivers for seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's, and other neurodegenerative illnesses. Contact us today to learn more about how to get care for your loved ones.