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Indoor Air Quality – Protecting Your Health and Your Home
As we settle into summer, many Canadians are enjoying more time outdoors—but this year, that fresh air may not be so fresh. Ongoing wildfires across Canada have significantly impacted outdoor air quality in many regions. With smoke and pollutants lingering in the atmosphere, it’s more important than ever to pay attention to the quality of the air inside your home.
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters
Indoor air quality has a direct impact on your health. Poor air quality can aggravate allergies, trigger illnesses, and contribute to serious health complications. Ensuring the air in your home is clean and safe can help prevent discomfort and protect vulnerable family members, especially children, seniors, and those with respiratory conditions.
Common Causes of Poor Indoor Air Quality
- Cigarette smoke
- Water damage and flooding
- Mould and mildew
- Dust and dust mites
- Attached garages (vehicle fumes, chemicals)
- HVAC systems in disrepair
- Home renovations (construction dust, VOCs)
Signs Your Home May Have Poor Air Quality
- Cracking or weathering on items made of silver, copper, leather, or wood
- Blackened copper wiring
- Unusual discolouration on walls or surfaces
- Musty or unpleasant odours
You may also experience physical symptoms such as:
- Sinus congestion or irritation
- Shortness of breath
- Dry eyes, skin, nose, or throat
- Frequent coughing, sneezing, or headaches
- Fatigue, dizziness, or a general feeling of unwellness
- Worsening of chronic respiratory or health conditions
Tips to Improve and Maintain Indoor Air Quality
- Ventilation:
Ensure regular airflow in your home. Use exhaust fans and open windows when air quality permits. During wildfire season or poor outdoor conditions, keep windows closed and switch HVAC systems to “recirculate.” - Prevent Mould Growth:
Maintain low humidity levels. Use bathroom fans, fix leaks promptly, and dry wet surfaces or materials within 48 hours. Discard items that can’t be fully dried or cleaned. - Use HEPA Filters:
Install High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters in your air purifiers and HVAC systems to capture fine particles, such as smoke, pollen, pet dander, and bacteria. - Change HVAC Filters Regularly:
Replace furnace and air conditioning filters every 3 to 6 months—or more frequently during wildfire season or if you have pets, children, or allergy sufferers at home. - Schedule Duct Cleaning:
Ductwork should be cleaned every 2–3 years. More frequent cleaning may be needed if there are pets or allergy-sensitive individuals in the home. - Clean Frequently:
Vacuum carpets, fabric furniture, and mattresses regularly using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Use damp cloths and mops to trap and remove dust rather than spreading it.
Protect Your Home from Outdoor Air Pollution
Wildfire smoke and environmental conditions can greatly reduce outdoor air quality. Use the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) to monitor real-time conditions in your area. On days when the AQHI is high:
- Keep windows and doors tightly closed
- Seal gaps around windows and doors
- Close fireplace dampers
- Use air conditioners with high-quality filters
- Set HVAC systems to “recirculate” mode