People often assume that indoor air is cleaner than the air outdoors. Unfortunately, the quality of indoor air can actually be two to five times worse than what’s outside. Lack of air exchange can let common contaminants like pollen, dirt, spores, and volatile organic compounds build up inside a house.
According to a recent American Pet Products Association survey, U.S. households include 68 million dogs and 49 million cats. Those furry family members add pet dander, fur, urine, and feces to the mix. Fortunately, pet owners don’t have to accept poor air quality. They can take steps to keep everyone in their home, four-footed as well as two-footed, happier and healthier.
Normalize Grooming
Wipe your pets’ paws whenever they come in, or keep a mat by the door to catch whatever they track inside. Brush their fur regularly to remove loose hair and minimize floating pet dander. Bathe them as appropriate using pet-friendly products.
Launder Regularly
Eliminate allergens, bacteria, and unpleasant smells by laundering your pets’ bedding, toys, and other belongings regularly. Washing all blankets and bedding regularly will keep your home fresher. Stay alert, and wash items sooner if needed.
Clean the Floors
It may seem odd to focus on what’s underfoot if you want to improve your household’s air. However, dander, fur, dirt, and other small particles often settle on the ground. They become trapped in carpets, beneath furniture, or in the corners of your hardwood floors. For pet lovers, routinely vacuuming and chasing down the dust bunnies can lead to significant improvements in air quality.
Employ Proper Ventilation
Moving air to remove moisture and odors and bring in fresh air is vital. It’s also a fantastic way to decrease indoor irritants. When conditions are good, consider opening windows to allow fresh air to circulate. Make sure bathrooms and kitchens have exhaust fans to deal with the high humidity that is frequently found in these spaces.
Change Air Filters
Air filters trap troublesome particles to keep them from recirculating through your environment. Households with pets must change their air filters more frequently. They may need a superior filter that can catch more particles. However, they need to balance this against the wear on the HVAC system.
Consider an Air Purifier
A whole-house air purifier wipes air clean with ionic or ultraviolet technology. It’s an excellent way to erase impurities like pet dander and grime before they compromise the quality of your home’s air.
When furry pets are part of your family, maintaining good indoor air quality comes with extra challenges. Still, it’s doable. Dallas Plumbing & Air Conditioning provides expert HVAC services that deliver indoor air quality solutions in Dallas, TX. Whether you need top-notch HVAC filters, advanced air purifiers, duct cleaning, installation, or maintenance, our experienced technicians are ready to help you breathe easier. Contact us today to learn more.
