Many people are surprised to learn that the air inside of their homes can contain more contaminants than the air outside near a busy freeway or factory. According to Indoor Air Quality, Inc., 96 percent of homes have at least one indoor air quality problem.

Ventilation

Ventilation is essential to your indoor air quality. When cooking, use the exhaust fan on the range hood to disperse the steam and odors. It is also a good idea to turn on the fan or open a window when showering. Letting the steam out helps to reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth. If you do hobbies that involve volatile organic compounds such as glues and paints, open a window or use a fan to push the airborne pollutants outside. Do not allow anyone to smoke inside of your house, because the contaminants from smoking can stick onto your windows, walls, flooring, upholstered furniture and curtains.

Charcoal Air Filters

If odors are a problem in your home, charcoal air filters can help to eliminate them. These filters work well if you have pets in your home. You can buy activated charcoal air filters to get rid of musty smells in a basement recreation area. The charcoal filters fit into your home's air blower, furnace or air conditioning unit. Be sure to replace it every three months for the best results.

UV Filters

During cold and flu season, you and your family could share germs from sneezing and coughing into the air. Installing a UV light system into your air blower can eliminate the bacteria and viruses that make you sick. These lights eradicate germs as the blower propels the heated air through your air ducts and into the living spaces of your home. They can be used with any forced air heating system.

Vacuum Filters

If your home has any carpeting, vacuum filters are essential to getting rid of dust and dust mites. Dust and dust mites are a major contributor to indoor air quality problems. They may also trigger allergies and asthma. Make sure that your vacuum is outfitted with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Also make sure that people take their shoes off before coming in. This helps reduce the dirt and dust that gets on the carpet.

Indoor air quality has direct impacts on your health. Using filters can help to get rid of many air pollutants. By cleaning up the air, you can breathe more easily.