Indoor air quality varies from region to region, and between houses within regions. Here are some factors that impact how good or bad the air in your home is. 

Outdoor Air Quality

While indoor and outdoor air can generally be kept separate, some outdoor air will inevitably come into your house. The air will come in when your home's windows are open, when people go in and out of doors, and through ventilation in the roof. Thus, the outdoor air will have some effect on your home's indoor air whenever the air outside enters.

You don't have much control over outdoor air quality or airflow that comes in through doors and vents. You can avoid opening windows when the air immediately outside your home is especially bad. Don't open windows on days when there's an outdoor air advisory, and also not when someone is mowing the lawn — the cut grass will release allergens into the air.

Number of People

The number of people who live in your home directly impacts the house's indoor air quality. Everyone brings some dirt in whenever they enter the house, and everyone sheds dead skin cells. Both of these create dust, some of which will become airborne.

You obviously don't want to reduce the number of people living in your home solely to improve the house's air quality. You may consider how many people live in your home when you replace the furnace's air filter or set up a freestanding air filter. Go for better and bigger air filters if a lot of people reside in your house.

Number of Furry Pets

Pets can also impact your home's indoor air quality. Specifically, furry pets can add dander and dust to the air. A dog that goes in and outside will generate a lot more dander and dust than a lizard that stays in its cage.

Before getting any new pet, consider how it might impact your home's air quality. Look for a non-furry pet if you don't want much of a negative impact at all. Perhaps a non-shedding dog or cat would be good if you want something furry but also want to mitigate any impact on air quality.

Number of Plants

Just as plants filter the air outside, they too can filter the air inside your home. Plants — particularly those with green leaves — act as natural air purifiers. Herbs, flowers, spider plants, live mosses, and ivy are all suitable indoor plant choices.

If you'd like more information about an indoor air quality assessment, contact a local company. 

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