January 5, 2021

You may be shocked to learn that the air in your Erie, PA, home is up to five times more polluted than the air you breathe when standing in your backyard. Indoor air pollutants interfere with respiratory functions, comfort and overall well-being. If you’ve heard that indoor plants can improve your home’s indoor air quality, you might consider bringing a few of them into your living space. Before you do that, here’s what you need to know about whether or not houseplants actually have the ability to cleanse your home’s air.

What the Science Shows

A small study by NASA in 1989 suggested that 12 common houseplants could remove volatile organic compounds from the air. That study was done under highly controlled laboratory conditions that involved the use of small, vacuum-sealed chambers. Your home isn’t small, and it’s also not vacuum-sealed. In real-world conditions, no indoor plant has been scientifically shown to make a dramatic impact on indoor air quality. More recent studies demonstrated that you’d need between 10 and 1,000 indoor plants per square meter to absorb significant amounts of pollutants.

Reasons to Bring Plants Into Your Home

Plants take in carbon dioxide, and they release oxygen. Adding some plants to your home could create more oxygen for you to breathe. Plants also have a calming effect that may help you feel less stressed or anxious.

Use Caution If You Bring Plants Into Your Living Space

If you choose to get houseplants, water them cautiously. Overwatering could facilitate mold growth. Plants may come infested with mites. Houseplants may also release pollen, which could trigger allergy or asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Other Solutions

Plants are one way to improve air quality, but the science doesn’t show huge improvements. Instead, consider getting a mechanical air quality solution added to your HVAC system.

At J.J. Agnello Heating & Air Conditioning Inc, we’re the trusted providers of indoor air quality solutions in Erie. Homeowners also count on us for affordable heating and air conditioning maintenance, repair, replacement and installation. Our duct cleaning and maintenance agreements are designed with your budget, health and comfort in mind. For more details about houseplants and indoor air quality, get in touch with us at J.J. Agnello Heating & Air Conditioning Inc today.

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