Do you use any of these household cleaners?
When we use household cleaners, we expect them to do just that — clean! But while household cleaners can fix one problem, they can cause another when it comes to the quality of the air inside of your home. Read on to learn four common household cleaners that could be doing more damage to your health than you realize.
1. Aerosol Sprays
Despite several studies regarding the adverse effects of aerosol cans, many people still keep these in their homes in various forms (hairspray, for example). What makes these products so dangerous are the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found within. VOCs can cause a variety of short and long-term side effects ranging from nausea and dizziness to blurry vision and chronic headaches.
2. Bleach
Bleach is a common household product often used the keep the bathroom and kitchen clean and disinfected — but this cleaning chemical should be used sparingly. Even in minor doses, bleach can result in severe health effects if not used in a well-ventilated area. When cleaning with bleach, use just what you need and make sure you open windows or doors.
3. Bug Spray, Roach Killer, and Other Pesticides
No one wants to see ants, roaches and other uninvited pests scurrying around their home, but store-bought pesticides might not be the best answer. Even pesticides that claim to be safe for indoor use can still be toxic in higher doses. When you use this inside of your home, the product can become trapped in your home, never truly airing out. The result? Decreased indoor air quality and a greater risk for illness. Before you reach for the pesticides, make sure that you address any underlying issues causing the bugs (crumbs, inefficient sealant and the like). If the problem persists, contact an exterminator to discuss safe options for removing common household critters.
4. Air Fresheners and Candles
Who doesn’t love walking into a wonderfully-scented room? Air fresheners and candles may seem harmless, but that is not always the case. Many companies are still producing air fresheners and candles that contain a long list of dangerous chemicals and carcinogens. As an alternative, consider using a natural alternative. Diffusing essential oils and opting for soy candles can give your home a pleasant smell without decreasing your indoor air quality in the process.
Contact Spencer Heating and Air for Air Quality Solutions
When it comes to keeping the air in your home clean and safe for your family to breathe, having your air conditioning system maintained by a professional twice a year is the best thing you can do! Not only will this ensure your home’s air is safe to breathe, but professional maintenance will increase the overall comfort of your home and keep your energy costs down in the process. If you haven’t had your system serviced in the last six months, give Spencer Heating and Air a call today at 334-887-9020 to schedule your appointment or to learn more from one of our technicians.
