Reduce Airborne Contaminants In Your Attached Garage And In Your Home

As winter continues, it becomes vital to keep the air quality of your home high. When the house is closed to outside air, it is easy for contaminants inside the home or garage to build up, creating air that is unsafe to breathe. You can prevent some air pollution in your home by removing unwanted contaminants in your attached garage.

Even though your attached garage is separate from the rest of the house, the air can still seep inside your home. Anything that is present in the garage will eventually wind up in the house, including carbon monoxide, chemicals, paint fumes and other contaminants. The best way to keep your home’s air free of air pollution is to eliminate contaminants in your attached garage using the following methods:

• When possible, eliminate the source of the problem. Store chemicals, cleaning products, pesticides, lawn care products, gasoline, paint and anything else with a strong odor in a detached storage unit. Throw away unused products.
• Install an exhaust fan inside the garage to push dirty air outside. Run the fan for a few minutes each day, especially if you keep your vehicle inside your garage.
• Never run your vehicle or gas-powered appliances with the garage door closed. Always allow as much fresh air as possible inside the garage.
• Seal any gaps between the house and garage walls. Use caulk to make an airtight seal. Make sure the door has an airtight seal as well. Add weatherstripping or replace the door entirely to prevent contamination.
• If you have gas-powered appliances inside your garage, or if your furnace is located in the garage, you may want to move them into another area. These appliances can give off a high level of pollutants, such as carbon monoxide.

For other tips on ways to remove contaminants in your attached garage and home, contact us at Blanton’s. We are happy to help you improve the air quality of your home, or address any other HVAC questions you have.