Ban on gas stoves in the United States?
We just read an article about the U.S. Consumer Product Safety agency reporting that there is an indication that gas stove usage may have a hidden hazard which can cause health issues primarily respiratory problems in children. Basically, gas stoves, which are used in over 40 million homes, produce air pollutants at levels that are considered unsafe by the EPA and WHO. These pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide may be a contributing factor for respiratory problems like asthma as well as heart and cancer issues. New regulations will affect new products. There is no indication that you HAVE to get rid of your gas stove.
At Majestic AC, we have been talking a lot about the importance of considering the quality of air that you and your family breathes inside your home. Proper indoor air quality (IAQ) measures and ventilation can go a long way to provide safer air in your home.
How does pollutants and allergens get inside my home?
There are many sources of pollutants inside your home. Some are lifestyle related while many are from construction factors. Fuel-burning combustion appliances like the gas stoves we just mentioned as well as your gas furnace can contribute. Tobacco products, use of cleaning products and personal hobbies add to allergens in the air. Additionally, if your home is not built tightly as most older homes are not, pollutants can get in from the outside through doors, windows and cracks in your home. Certain building materials of your home itself as well as home furnishings can contribute.
What can be done to improve Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
There are some things you can do to improve the quality of air you and your family breathes. It will definitely have a positive health impact.
Make sure to change your air filter
Your AC works hard all summer to keep you comfortable but the filter also keeps out a lot of allergens and pollutants depending on the level filter you have. Change them every 90 days. If you have pets or a lot of people living in your home, consider changing them more often. This not only makes the air cleaner. It also allows your AC not to work so hard
Check your "other" air filters
Many people do not think about them but in today's home, there are several other places you might have air filters like your refrigerator, vacuum cleaner and dryer are a couple that comes to mind.
If you have an older home consider replacing your air ducts
Over a long time, dust, dander and even mold can accumulate in your ducting. Consider getting them replaced. We do not clean air ducts. We only replace them. Click here to find out why.
Use the cooking vents when using your stove
Just like this article says, many pollutants get into your home by using kitchen appliances. When your cooking consider using your vents and/or open a window to help vent out the carbon monoxide and other pollutants.
Control the humidity level in your home
Humid conditions in your home is definitely not healthy. It promotes mold and mildew growth that can be hazardous. At Majestic AC, we have dehumidifier options to help.
Clean your rugs, carpets and curtains
Rugs, carpets and curtains are like filters. They trap and collect dust, dander and other fine particles. This actually helps your indoor air quality so keep them clean so they can keep working for you.
Talk to a Majestic AC Comfort Consultant
Our Comfort Consultants are very knowledgeable about Indoor Air Quality and how it affects your family as well as things that can be done to improve it. Schedule a free consultation about your indoor air quality. We have products such as dehumidifiers, air cleaners and air purifiers to help improve the air you and your family breathes.