As we’ve discussed on this environmental consulting blog before, indoor air quality becomes a prominent concern in the warm months, particularly when we seal off our windows and crevices to improve our air conditioners’ effectiveness.
Here are a few easy steps to remember this summer that can help improve your indoor air quality:
1. Radon testing. Radon has emerged as a silent indoor killer. It’s a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that seeps into homes through cracks in the foundation. How deadly is radon? It is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Hiring experts to test your home for radon is a worthy investment, as the consequences of ignoring it are life-and-death.
2. Watch out for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Volatile (or toxic) organic compounds occur all over our homes. They could be in paint, adhesives, pesticides, detergents, cosmetics and more. Even the vinyl in a shower curtain can quality as a VOC. Sealing the VOCs away doesn’t necessarily mean you’re safe, as the compounds can leak from sealed containers. Your better bet is to use natural products whenever possible. If you have to paint, do so with your windows open. When getting rid of volatile organic compounds, it’s a smart idea to hire a hazardous waste disposal company to do the job safely and in a way that won’t harm the environment.
3. Introduce more plant life into your home. Read up on particular house plants that are easy to maintain and don’t easily die. The more plant life you have in your home, the more oxygen they’ll give off and the more they’ll filter the air for you.
Follow these steps and your indoor air quality will be the best on your block!
Environmental Services Group is a cutting edge environmental consulting firm based in Toronto and servicing both the Greater Toronto Area and Ontario. We provide state-of-the-art, industry-leading expertise in remedying environmental hazards such as mold, lead, asbestos and much more. Call 416-575-6111 or visit our website today for a pressure-free initial consultation. You’ll be glad you did!
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