More and more the link between lung disease and the environment is becoming undeniable. In Ontario alone, 1.6 million people have asthma and this number is steadily growing. While the thought of taking on global warming and cross-boundary smog issues may seem daunting, there are small yet significant ways to improve your home environment starting with its air quality.

“I know how important it is to have a clean, clutter free home when buying or selling, but it also benefits your health,” says Sandra Rinomato, renowned realtor and host of television’s Property Virgins. “The average adult breathes about 20,000 times each day so cleaning up the air in your home makes a lot of sense.”

Sweat the small stuff. Dust and mould are two of the top offenders and need a proactive approach to preventing and controlling them beginning with the five “F”s: fresh air, flooring, furniture, furnace and fireplace.

Fresh Air:

• Open up your windows and let in the fresh air. Homes are more air-tight and energy efficient these days so opening windows when the pollen count is low and air quality is good is a simple yet effective way to get air circulating.
• Central vacuum systems improve your home’s air quality by removing particles to a canister outside the home

Flooring:

• Consider alternatives to wall-to-wall carpeting such as ceramics, hardwood or linoleum
• Check for mould in entranceways and on basement and bathroom floors, and in kitchens underneath fridges and dishwashers

Furniture:

• Look for pieces made of solid wood rather than veneers and press board as they can often contain formaldehyde and other chemicals
• Use removable cushion covers so they can be washed and kept dust free
• Don’t allow pets up on your furniture, especially your bed. Fur and dander can get trapped in covers and mattresses which can cause respiratory problems. If you are allergic to that type of pet, consider giving it away. Use allergy-proof mattress and pillows casings and wash in hot water once a week.

Furnace

• Check your filters monthly and change at least every three months throughout the year using a high efficiency filter
• Have your furnace inspected by a professional on a regular basis

Fireplace

• That lovely scent of wood burning is actually a sign there may be high levels of gases and contaminants in the air. Burn only clean dry wood cut into small pieces.
• Check your chimney and flue for corrosion or blockages and have it inspected regularly by a professional

“We all want to be at home and feel comfortable, especially when we aren’t feeling well,” says Sandra. “The irony is that our home itself could be making us sick. By changing a few habits and knowing what to look for to improve their home’s air quality, homeowners can have a dramatic effect on the lung health of their family. And as far as I’m concerned, a healthy home is a happy home.”

Interested in learning more about how to keep your home in tip top health? The Ontario Lung Association’s new magazine, Living and Breathing at Home, is free of charge and available through its Helpline at 1-888-344-LUNG (5864).

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Photo cutline – An eye for dust: Brian Stocks, Air Quality Manager with the Ontario Lung Association inspects a dust bunny held by Sandra Rinomato, renowned realtor and host of television’s popular show, Property Virgins. Together they recently launched a public education campaign to height awareness about the importance of a healthy home, especially for people with asthma.