In the ‘50s and ‘60s, the Houston Ship Channel was so full of dumped oil that beach-goers sometimes had to rinse the greasy residue off themselves before going inside to bathe. Communities like Texas City had hazy, odoriferous air.
We began to care about managing water pollution and air pollution. We’ve made progress, but there’s still more work to be done.
Summer 2018
This was an allergy-prone season in the Houston area of Texas. Other than an annoyingly over-abundance of dust on our furniture, some of us had allergy problems like never before. Sahara Dust is not an anomaly. There is a seasonal cycle for this African visitor to Houston, usually May-July. Local physician Chris Prichard (Texas ENT) said hospital admissions for asthma patients increase when these type of dust clouds move in.
Home is Where the Heart Health Is
Your home is supposed to be your safe place, but it may also be home to indoor air pollutions. If you want to improve IAQ (indoor air quality) and reduce and prevent indoor air pollution, here are 6 things that can help:
- Add indoor plants wherever possible.
- Change air/dehumidifier filters more often during pollen season and Sahara dust.
- Check your fireplace vents before winter.
- Choose hardwood floors vs. carpeting when renovating or building new.
- Ensure dryer vents, fireplace, and exhaust fans are free-venting.
- No smoking. No way, no how; never in the house.
- Open windows to introduce fresh air into your home.
- Vacuum frequently.
- Wash pets and their bedding frequently.
- When dusting, use microfiber cloths; they capture more dust.
Whole-House Air Filtration
You can prevent indoor air pollution using basic good housekeeping tips. But some families have newborns or elderly family members. For this population, poor indoor air quality can be life-threatening. Allergens hide in every room of your home, so whole-house air filtration might be a good solution for you and your family.
Your neighbors at Bradbury Brothers Cooling, Heating & Plumbing would like to explain different types of air filtration systems and their benefits.
Call 281.651.5484, 936.271.2030, or contact us to learn more about ways to prevent indoor air pollution.