IAQ and Air Cleaners

It's getting to that time of year for spring cleaning again and the blogosphere has definitely increased chatter on the best ways to go about spring cleaning. 

One of the things that caught my attention was the importance of using natural cleaning solutions.  Using cleaning solutions that are filled with all kinds of nasty chemicals can be hazardous to your health.  Basically, you are filling your house with toxic gaseous fumes, so if you do need to use the strong stuff open up a couple of windows to replace the toxic air with some fresh outside air. 

Another thing that many people do in the spring is make some type of investment into bettering their homes.  It can be anything from a new refrigerator that you've been talking about getting for the last few months to having some landscaping done.  One thing I would suggest, especially for those of you who have your HVAC contractor come out for a spring check up, is an investment in making your home a healthier place. 

If you don't have a whole home air cleaner ask your contractor about putting one in, if you live in an area where humidity is high or you have a newer "tight" home ask your contractor about installing a whole home dehumidifier, if you don't have a programmable thermostat have your contractor put one in.  All of the above will make your home a healthier, more comfortable and more sustainable place.  On top of it you will also save money.  An air cleaner will help to keep your heating and cooling equipment running a peak efficiency, a dehumidifier will allow you to turn your thermostat up and feel more comfortable and a programmable thermostat will allow you to reduce your energy use when your not home or when your in bed.