As you probably know all too well, one of the benefits of apartment living is NOT air circulation! Small or enclosed living spaces can cause pollutants to collect in your indoor air. These irritants remain stagnant in your space, just like that cousin who said he’d crash for “just a couple nights” (two months later, he’s still there!). In fact, the EPA states that indoor air can be even more polluted than outdoor air!
Let that sink in; think about the smoggy haze that lingers in heavily polluted cities. Yes, the air in your home may contain even more pollutants than THAT.
And, it’s no secret that property management companies don’t typically change the air filters on a strict schedule (and sometimes, not at all!). If they do, most of the time they use the cheap filters that don’t actually clean your air.
All of those irritants floating around can wreak serious havoc on your health, such as:
There is hope, though! Whether you are moving into a new apartment or staying put, there are simple steps you can take to better the indoor air quality in your place.
If you’re on the hunt for a new place, there are a number of factors to consider. First, look for upgraded heating and air conditioning units. If you live in a city of older buildings, then consider ensuring that you safeguard yourself from those old units with air filters that will keep them from blowing dust or mold into your place.
Proper ventilation and a layout that allows for the optimum level of airflow (basically, an open floor plan) is a plus too. Hopefully an easy criteria to fill, since open floorplans are all the rage right now.
Just looking to improve the indoor air quality of your current residence? Here are some tips for that too: