May is Clean Air Month

Learn How Central PA Ranks and How You Can Improve Your Air and Health

Clean Air month commemorates the Clean Air Act which passed in 1970, but what does this mean to you? Clean air is when oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide are in balance with one another void of other pollutants or allergens. Improving air quality whether it’s outdoor or indoor air means a healthier you. Read on to see how our area ranks, how you can breathe better air, and where to find more information on air quality.

How does the Greater Harrisburg Area measure-up?

According to the American Lung Association, Harrisburg-York-Lebanon area ranks #22 for year round particle pollution in the country with Lancaster at #20! Also, a grading system is used for high ozone days, York County received a D, while Franklin, Lancaster, Dauphin, and Adams Counties all received a C – unfortunately there is no measurement for Cumberland County. The overall statistics are pretty alarming.

How Do I Improve My Air Quality?

Central Pennsylvania is a heavily populated area with an abundance of truck traffic and plenty of manufacturing and industrial businesses. With all of these major contributors of pollutants we, as individuals, can still take steps to do our part. Our indoor air however is much easier for us to manage, it’s a good thing because it is estimated that we spend upwards of 90% of our lives indoors.

Outdoor Air Quality Improvement Tips

Carpool, bike, or walk when possible
Buy local produce and other goods to reduce truck traffic
Do not burn trash
Reduce overall home energy use

Indoor Air Quality Improvement Tips

Do not smoke or allow smoking indoors
Use non-toxic cleaners (vinegar and baking soda work wonders)
Avoid aerosol sprays and plug-in air fresheners
Change air filters regularly
Ventilate your home
Control humidity to prevent mold and dust mites
Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter
Test for radon
Bring the outdoors in with some indoor plants

Air Quality Resources

Besides local news there is an abundance of information that can be found online. The American Lung Association has a plethora of useful information and even an app that can be downloaded on any tablet or smartphone called the American Lung Association’s State of the Air app. Daily air quality monitoring in Central PA can be found here at Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) and at AIRNow.

At Zimmerman Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning we have many services available to provide your home with the best possible air quality. Regular maintenance of any of your homes systems is an excellent step to ensure your home is operating efficiently and avoiding any potential leaks or drips. Beneficial accessories can be added to almost any home, like a media filter, UV air purifier, whole-home dehumidifier, or attic fan. Contact us if you would like further information on any of the services that we provide or feel free to schedule an estimate today.