Asthma Awareness
May is National Asthma Awareness Month.
32.6 million people in the Unites States – more than 1 in 10 have had asthma at some point in their lives. 12.2 million Americans had an asthma attack last year.
If you or anyone you know has had asthma, you are aware of how many potential triggers there can be in the home and office. Since most of us spend at least 80% of our time indoors we need to keep our environment inside clean and conditioned. Some of the more obvious ways to control the air inside; if you are going to smoke, do so outdoors and away from doors or windows. Vacuum and dust your space regularly. Use low-scent natural cleaners instead of those with harsh chemicals and odors.
A few other options to consider would be; replacing your old fiberglass insulation with a solid low-dust variety. Keeping your heating and air conditioning systems professionally cleaned and maintained. Having your old ductwork replaced or sealed will also improve the air quality and energy efficiency of your system. If you have Progress Energy they offer a rebate on duct sealing and replacement.
Especially in our hot and humid southern region you will want to do everything possible to control excess moisture in your home. This can be done by cleaning up spills immediately, using the exhaust fans in the bathroom for 15-30 minutes after you shower as well as in the kitchen while you are cooking. If you are in the Triangle area Livegreen, Inc. can seal and/or condition your crawlspace which is very effective in reducing the overall moisture in your home.
We offer a wide variety of products designed to filter and clean the air in your home; from Ultra Violet Germicidal lights to Media Air Cleaners and whole house Air Purification Systems. If you or a family member suffer from Asthma, or would just like to breathe easier inside your home or office we can find the option that will work best for your space and your budget.
We found the following sites to be helpful resources:
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/425.html This page is full of information on potential biological pollutants inside your home.
http://airnow.gov Will give you the local air quality conditions and forecast.
http://www.dsireusa.org/incentives/index.cfm?getRE=1?re=undefined&ee=1&spv=0&st=0&srp=1&state=NC for information on local tax credits and rebates
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/450.html The CPSC and EPA guide to indoor air quality.