Peee-yew! We may not know where that term comes from, but we sure know when to use it. Stinky air is always annoying, and there are times that it can be a sign of something unhealthy in your home. Did you know that the air you breathe inside is often more polluted than the stuff floating around outdoors? You are constantly inhaling dust, dead skin, pollen, mold spores, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and more every time you take a breath. With all those impurities in the air, a smelly bathroom almost sounds like a not-so-bad place to be after all.

At Mister Quik, we offer plenty of products and services designed to improve your home’s air quality. Between those visits from one of central Indiana’s favorite HVAC pros, there are many things you can do on your own. Let’s take a look at five easy ways to breathe healthier, fresher air at home.

Clean floors

It’s likely a chore that’s already on your weekly to-do list, and something as simple as sweeping floors can have a dramatic effect on your home’s air. Add regular mopping (opt for cleaners that don’t contain noxious chemicals) and vacuuming (consider a vacuum with a bagless feature and HEPA filtration), and you’ve got a recipe for clean breathing ahead.

Add a floor mat or small rug inside every entryway, and you can help trap even more allergens from settling inside and getting kicked up every time your kid or dog runs by.

Proper humidity

Mold and mildew are common contaminants that reduce indoor air quality. They also thrive on moisture, so it is important to take the proper steps to achieve the right humidity levels at home. When bathing, always turn on the bathroom exhaust fan or open a window. Make sure clothes dryers are vented outside. If you rely on portable dehumidifiers and/or window air conditioners, regularly empty the drip plans where water collects.

Radon prevention

Ever heard of radon? Unlike allergens and odors, this radioactive gas is colorless, and has no smell or taste. It also raises your risk of lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of death from lung cancer in the United States. Radon is found in homes of all ages and size. It is created by the organic breakdown of uranium, which is found naturally in soil, and seeps into homes through tiny cracks in the foundation. Nearly every home is at some risk of a radon problem.

Thankfully, testing for and reducing radon levels are simple, relatively inexpensive processes. Homeowners can also purchase radon detectors that work much like smoke alarms.

Smoke outside

If you have to smoke, take it outside. Cigarette smoke is one of the biggest contributors to indoor air pollution, not to mention the countless health hazards facing smokers and those stuck around them. We won’t go through all of the reasons not to smoke. Instead, we just encourage anyone who does smoke to spare their loved ones, and simply light up outside.

Plant inside

Did you know that many houseplants also act as natural air purifiers? It’s true. They clean the air around them and typically require little more maintenance than the occasional sip of water. Talk to your local nursery or garden supply store about the best plants for improving air quality, and add as many as you care to in the rooms you use most at home.

Want more ways to enjoy the air you breathe at home? Talk to Mister Quik today! From HVAC systems and accessories, to humidification solutions and so much more, we’re the first name in indoor air quality and efficiency. When you contact Mister Quik, ask about our current specials and valuable money-saving coupons.

2014 is destined to be a particularly bad allergy season. Mister Quik can help!