When thinking about cleaning, indoor air quality is not a topic that is normally thought about. However, it can have adverse effects on your health. According to the American Lung Association, “people take an average of 21,600 breaths per day; with 80% of American's time spent indoors, the quality of the air we breathe is very important.”

February is care about your indoor air month. The EPA lists air quality amongst its top environmental risks. With a large variety of harmful contaminents and air pollutants, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the air we breathe.

Why Care?

• Air quality has adverse effects on our health. It can affect many health systems such as our heart and respiratory system.
• Poor air quality can affect concentration. Imagine how productive you are if there is a pungent smell in your home or office? Odors can be distracting and cost employers lost time in productivity of employees.
• Health effects from poor air quality can cost not only lost time but lots of money. If chronic conditions develop such as asthma, not only may the out of pocket costs go up for medicine or treatment but insurance costs could rise as well. Employers may see time lost in the form of increased sick days amongst employees.

What Can I do?

• Change your air filters. Depending on where you are located and your climate, it is recommended that you change your filters monthly to quarterly. Filters are available at most hardware stores and are easy to replace.
• Upgrade your air filters. Filters are rated based upon the size of particles they help remove from the air. Check the filter ratings in your system and determine if using a higher quality filter is needed. Many filters even help to remove some odors.
• Clean your air ducts. Just like dust throughout a home or business, dust, dirt and grime can build up within your air ducts. When your system is in use, that dust and debris can be blow around your home or business. Not maintaining a proper clean can cause respiratory and allergy problems.
• Clean your vents. Make sure your outside vents are free of mold, moisture or any blockage. Make sure your inside vents are dusted and clear of any dirt and debris.
• Keep dirt and dust out. Make sure you have a professional matting system outside of your business or home entries.
• Suck it up! Frequent vacuuming with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter can greatly reduce the number of allergens and dust that build up in your air filtration system.

Octagon Building Care is a leader in commercial cleaning and building solutions for Fort Worth, Arlington, and Dallas. Follow us on Facebook for more great information.