How Houseplants Can Boost Indoor Air Quality

Your home’s air quality might be more important than you think. Toxins, allergens, and other contaminants can make your home uncomfortable to live in and could even be affecting your family’s health. This is why all homeowners should consider investing in some indoor houseplants to help purify their air the natural way. Read on to learn more.

What’s in My Air?

Most people will begin to notice problems with their home’s air quality when they experience ongoing headaches, overwhelming seasonal allergies, itchy eyes, a sore throat, or unusual smells. These can be the side effects of allergens such as pollen and pet dander that have come in through doors, windows, or the HVAC system.

Removing Contaminants With Houseplants

Studies carried out by NASA, Penn State, and a number of other institutions have found that certain plants can remove a variety of contaminants from the air within a short period of time. This research has shown us that plants often absorb harmful materials such as VOCs and carcinogens in a process known as phytoremediation. After pulling these substances from the air, the plants will filter them and produce clean air for us to breathe.

Choosing the Right Plants

Unfortunately, not every plant is effective at purifying the air in a closed space. Some of the best houseplants for improving indoor air quality included Boston ferns, Japanese ferns, and peace lilies. Different types of ivy were also able to remove some of the most harmful airborne substances along with aloe vera plants, snake plants, and spider plants. The biggest benefits were seen when the plants were evenly distributed throughout the house and kept near high traffic areas such as bedrooms and kitchens.

Have Your Air Quality Tested With Energy Air

If you have noticed any of the signs of poor indoor air quality, then please contact Energy Air today to schedule an appointment with one of our friendly, experienced, and certified technicians. We can help you come up with long-term solutions to any indoor air quality issues that you might have.