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HOME OCTOBER 2017 4 When at home, you're probably relaxing, playing with the kids or tackling necessary chores. What you aren't likely doing is thinking about the air you're breathing. Unfortunately, the reality is poor indoor air quality in residential spaces is a major problem. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Com- mission points to a growing body of scien- tific evidence that the air within homes can be more polluted than the outdoor air in large, industrialized cities. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency studies found levels of about a dozen common organic pollutants to be two to five times higher inside homes than outside. While there is little you can do to control the allergens and pollutants lurking out- side, there are many ways to take action inside the home to improve your indoor air quality. Follow these four steps and breathe easier at home: Step 1: Eliminate dust mites. Dust mites can be prevalent, especially in bed- room spaces. Wash all sheets, blankets, pil- lowcases and bed covers in hot water that is at least 130 degrees F. to kill dust mites and remove allergens, notes the Mayo Clin- ic. If bedding can't be washed in hot water, put items in the dryer for at least 15 min- utes at a temperature above 130 degrees F. To further prevent mites in sleeping spaces, use dust-proof or allergen-blocking covers on mattresses, box springs and pil- lows. If you have kids, don't forget to wash stuffed animals regularly. Step 2: Vacuum smarter. One of the easiest things you can do to improve indoor air quality is to vacuum thoroughly and regularly on all levels. However, traditional vacuums are heavy and difficult to move to different floors. Furthermore, they can kick up more dust into the air than they are removing. Due to these concerns, many homeowners are considering the benefits of central vacuum systems. Central vacu- ums remove dirt and dust vacuumed from the home, whereas conventional vacuums may filter dirt and dust but reticulate the same air via the exhaust back into the home. Step 3: Freshen air wisely. Open win- dows aren't always the best way to bring in fresh air. When pollen levels are high, the spores can come into a home and stick to every surface. On high-allergen days, refresh air and cool the home with fans or the air conditioner. As an additional line of defense against dust mite debris and allergens, you should use a high-efficiency particulate air filter with your central furnace and air condi- tioning unit, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. If that's too costly, the EPA says filters with a mini- mum efficiency reporting value between 7 and 13 are likely to be nearly as effective as true HEPA filters at controlling most air- borne indoor particles. No matter which you use, try to change the filter every three months. Step 4: Mitigate moisture. Mold thrives in dark, damp climates, so it's important to eliminate places for growth. To start, be aware of moisture levels throughout the home. Always use the bath- room exhaust fan to inhibit moisture buildup. Fix leaky faucets as quickly as possible and stay on top of maintenance for appliances like the refrigerator and air conditioner. Additionally, consider using a dehumidifier to decrease the amount of moisture inside the home. This can be par- ticularly important during rainy seasons or in basement or cellar spaces, if your home has them. Allergens and indoor air quality: 4 steps to a healthier home A central vacuum system is one way to improve air quality in your home. Homeowners often choose to save money and learn valuable skills by doing their own home improvement projects. These minor or major renovations are made much more successful by having the right tools for the job. Investing in good tools can be smart, but those tools are only effective if they are accessible and in good repair. Homeowners who emphasize taking care of their tools can make DIY projects that much easier and more rewarding. Establish a place for everything Nothing can be more frustrating than wanting to begin a project only to spend precious time looking for tools. Almost as important as the investment in tools is the investment in tool storage. Hardwood or metal tool chests feature various drawers and cabinets that can house tools of different sizes. By keeping tools in a chest, they're easy to find and more likely to stay sharp and in good con- dition. Metal tools should be stored in a cool, dry area, as dust and moisture can cause rust- ing issues on metal tools. One way to allevi- ate rust is to spray metal tools with a prod- uct like WD-40 to serve as a moisture barri- er, then store them in closed drawers or containers. All tools do not necessarily have to be stored in a garage or work shed. Many homeowners like to keep smaller tools in the house so that frequently used items are within reach. A hammer, wrench, pliers, and a few screwdrivers are handy tools to have around inside the house. Hang garden tools Whether garden tools are kept in a shed or inside the home, hang them so they don't crowd the floor. Moisture can creep up from concrete or dirt floors and eventually com- promise the tools. Keep cords neatly wound and secured as well. Rely on original cases Power tools typically are packaged in hard plastic cases. This keeps the tools secure and often is the best method of stor- age. Original cases also help protect tools from humidity. Label each case so tools are easily identifiable when stacked on a shelf or in a cabinet. Clean tools after use Hand tools and gardening tools usually can be cleaned with rags. If these tools are especially dirty, give them a wash with soap and water. Just be sure to dry the tools thor- oughly after washing them. LifeHacker advises wiping down wooden handles on tools with linseed oil to keep them in good repair. Power tools may benefit from compressed air being blown into smaller crevices to dis- lodge sawdust and other debris. Lubricate any moving parts with a product recom- mended by the manufacturer. Keeping tools clean and in good repair goes a long way toward safer, more efficient home improvement projects. Caring for tools properly begins with organization Creating a place for all your tools can not only save time and frustration when looking for a tool, but can also keep it in better condition.

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