Practical steps to cut indoor air pollution, which can run 2-5 times higher than outdoor air where we spend 90% of our time.
We spend about 90% of our time indoors, where air can be 2-5 times more polluted than outside, aggravating allergies, asthma, and fatigue.
- Change filters on schedule: Every 3 months normally, every 1-2 months with pets, monthly for allergy sufferers or smokers. HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns and larger.
- Control humidity: Keep indoor levels at 30-50% to limit mold and dust mites.
- Ventilate: Open windows ~20 min daily, run exhaust fans, or add an ERV/HRV well-suited to the Pacific Northwest.
- Clean ducts every 3-5 years, sooner with pets, allergies, or moisture damage. Watch for VOCs, radon, CO, and mold.
