Latest news with #indoorairquality
Jordan Times
7 days ago
- Health
- Jordan Times
Fresh Air Starts at Home
Dr Said Qabbaah Medical Writer & Public Health Expert Poor indoor air quality can significantly impact health, causing breathing problems, allergies and even serious long-term conditions. Indoor Air Pollution Understanding the risks of indoor air pollution and taking steps to improve the quality of air you breathe at home can help protect you and those around you. Indoor air pollution occurs when airborne impurities build up inside homes and buildings, leading to poor air quality. Since most people spend the majority of their time indoors, especially during colder months, exposure to these air pollutants can have lasting effects on their health. Common Indoor Pollutants Some of the common indoor air pollutants include: Particulate matter: These are tiny airborne particles that are released from cooking, smoking, candles, fireplaces, as well as outdoor air pollution that can become trapped indoors. Volatile organic compounds: Found in common household cleaning products, paints and air fresheners Mould and mildew: High humidity levels can lead to growth of mould, releasing harmful spores into the air. Carbon monoxide: This highly dangerous, odourless, and colourless gas is produced by gas stoves, fireplaces and heating systems. High levels can be deadly, making proper ventilation and monitoring essential. Dust and pet dander: These are common allergens that can cause breathing irritation, especially in sensitive individuals. Radon gas: This is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground and is linked to lung cancer. What Are the Health Risks? The impact of poor indoor air quality varies depending on the type and level of pollutants, as well as individual sensitivity. Some health effects include: Irritation of the eyes, nose and throat Headaches and dizziness. Fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Allergic reactions, such as sneezing, congestion and itchy skin. Long-term health consequences that can affect the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, increasing the risk of conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, high blood pressure and heart attacks. Prolonged exposure may also increase the risk of developing cancer. Improving Indoor Air Quality The good news is that there are several steps you can take to reduce indoor air pollution and create a healthier living environment. Here are some: 1. Improving ventilation: Proper airflow helps reduce the concentration of indoor pollutants. Open windows and doors regularly to allow fresh air to circulate. Also, you can use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture and fumes. 2. Using air purifiers: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can capture airborne particles like dust, pet dander, and mould spores. Consider placing air purifiers in frequently used areas of your house, such as your bedroom and living room, to improve air quality, especially in homes with poor airflow. It's also important to properly maintain your home heating and cooling systems to help prevent the accumulation of dust and mould. This can be done by regularly changing the air filters, as well as scheduling annual inspections and cleanings, while ensuring vents are unblocked for proper airflow. 3. Controlling humidity levels: Keeping indoor humidity between 30-50 per cent helps prevent mould growth and reduces dust mites. If necessary, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, fix any water leaks and quickly dry wet surfaces. Also, it's helpful to use exhaust fans when cooking or showering to reduce moisture buildup. 4. Reducing indoor pollutants: Avoid smoking indoors, as secondhand smoke contains hundreds of harmful chemicals. So, it's best for your health to keep your ,home a smoke-free environment. 5. Choosing household products carefully: Choose cleaning supplies, paints and furnishings that contain little to no volatile organic compounds. Whenever possible, use natural alternatives like vinegar or baking soda for cleaning. Also, ensure storing chemicals and solvents in a wellventilated area of the house, or even outside if possible. 6. Keeping your home clean: A clean home is a healthy home. Reduce the buildup of allergens and pollutants by regularly hoovering carpets, rugs and upholstery. Wash bedding, curtains and soft furnishings frequently to remove dust and other allergens. It's also important to routinely dust surfaces with a damp cloth to trap any dust particles. 7. Testing for harmful gases: Since radon and carbon monoxide are invisible and odourless, testing is essential. Try hiring a professional to assess your home and install carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and fuel-burning appliances. 8. Introducing indoor plants: Some houseplants, such as peace lilies, snake plants and spider plants, can help filter toxins from the air, offering an effective complement to other air-quality measures Indoor air quality is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of home health. It's not just about comfort, but a proactive step towards better wellbeing. Simple actions can significantly improve the living environment for yourself and your loved ones. Investing in these small but effective changes can help you breathe more easily, sleep better and enjoy a safer, healthier home. Reprinted with permission from Family Flavours magazine
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Unity Home Service LLC Announces Expansion, Increased Availability of Year-Round Chimney Safety and Air Quality Services in Houston
Houston, TX, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Unity Home Service LLC, a rising name in residential maintenance, today announced that they are expanding services to focus on year-round chimney safety and indoor air quality services across Greater Houston. The increase in services comes as a result of the steep increase in demand for chimney cleaning and air quality services throughout the Greater Houston area. Marking its first anniversary, the company is scaling operations via headcount, staff, and support operators to meet growing demand for reliable, affordable home safety solutions—including chimney cleaning, leak prevention, and air duct sanitization—designed to help homeowners protect their families and improve home efficiency throughout all Home Service LLC Unity Home Service's reputation is quickly rising among Houston homeowners searching online for reliable 'chimney sweep near me,' 'chimney repair in Houston,' or 'chimney cleaning experts.' Offering free estimates and a $99 basic chimney cleaning and inspection package, the company sets a new standard for value and reliability. Local Expertise with Deep Community Roots With a physical service base at 10101 Fondren Rd Ste. 446, Houston, TX 77096, Unity Home Service LLC provides in-person consultations and services across the metro area. The company's location and verified business presence on Google Maps help it rank highly for key local searches like: Chimney services near Houston Fireplace cleaning Houston Chimney leak repair Houston Air duct cleaning Southwest Houston Chimney cap replacement Houston This locally optimized presence supports the company's commitment to fast, professional service throughout Harris County and surrounding areas. Professional, Affordable, and Fully Transparent Unity Home Service's pricing and quality make it a standout in the home service industry. Every service starts with a free estimate, allowing homeowners to understand exactly what they need without upfront pressure. For routine maintenance, the company offers a $99 Basic Cleaning & Inspection, a top choice for proactive homeowners looking to protect their families from fire hazards, indoor air pollution, and energy inefficiencies. Services include: Chimney cleaning and maintenance Chimney repair and leak detection Chimney cap and liner installation Fireplace cleaning and inspections Air duct cleaning and sanitization 'We're not here to upcharge homeowners we're here to protect their homes,' says a Unity Home Service representative. 'Our goal is to offer high-quality, trustworthy service without the games or gimmicks.' Targeting High-Intent, Local Search Traffic Unity Home Service is also taking an innovative approach to online visibility. Rather than targeting the most competitive national terms, the company focuses on long-tail keywords that match real homeowner search intent in the Houston area. Examples include: 'chimney cap replacement in Houston TX' 'fireplace inspection for winter preparation Houston' 'chimney sweep near me Southwest Houston' 'chimney leak repair specialist in Houston area' These targeted SEO strategies position the business for strong performance on both Google search and Google Maps, where service-based businesses often receive over 70% of their organic local traffic. Customer Trust Built Through Reviews and Results Unity Home Service maintains a growing presence of five-star reviews across Google and other platforms, reflecting the team's dedication to craftsmanship and transparency. With an expanding portfolio of satisfied homeowners, the business continues to build authority and trust, two essential components for top ranking in local and organic search. A Foundation for Scalable Growth Though newly established in 2024, Unity Home Service's staff brings years of field experience to every project. The company's streamlined processes, competitive pricing, and focus on customer satisfaction have already fueled its momentum and leadership plans to expand its service fleet and technician team in the coming year. About Unity Home Service LLC Unity Home Service LLC is a Houston-based residential service provider specializing in chimney sweep and repair, air duct cleaning, and related home safety maintenance. With a foundation in integrity, affordability, and expertise, the company is committed to helping homeowners protect their property, improve air quality, and enjoy peace of mind year-round. To request a free estimate or learn more about seasonal maintenance promotions, visit or contact the team at 713-352-0081. MEDIA CONTACT:Dani EliUnity Home Service LLC713-352-0081unityhomeserviceuhs@ Fondren Rd Ste. 446, Houston, TX 77096https:// Home Service at workError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
XPro Air Duct Cleaning Expands Indoor Air Quality and Dryer Safety Services Across the Chicago Metropolitan Area
Chicago, Illinois, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- XPro Air Duct Cleaning & Dryer Vent Cleaning, a locally operated provider of HVAC maintenance services, announced today the expansion of its indoor air quality and dryer safety offerings throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. The expanded service coverage aims to help homeowners and businesses reduce fire hazards, improve system efficiency, and enhance indoor air conditions with accessible, flat-rate Air Duct Cleaning Elevates Indoor Air Quality and Dryer Safety Across Chicago Specializing in air duct cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, dryer pipe replacement, and vent cover upgrades, XPro is uniquely positioned to serve residential and commercial clients who value health, safety, and HVAC system efficiency. Their Chicago-based team has earned high ratings for its transparent service model and no-surprise pricing. Preventing Fire Hazards and Improving Air Quality According to the National Fire Protection Association, failure to clean dryer vents is one of the leading causes of house fires in the United States. Dirty air ducts also contribute to poor air circulation and can worsen respiratory conditions, especially for individuals with allergies or asthma. XPro's professional cleanings help reduce these risks by restoring ventilation systems to safe, optimal operation. 'Our focus is on delivering results that protect families and businesses,' said John Pery, spokesperson for XPro. 'It's not just about cleanliness. It's about improving air quality, reducing fire risk, and increasing system performance—while offering honest pricing our clients can trust.' Trusted, Local, and Reviewed XPro Air Duct Cleaning is a dedicated provider—not a generalist cleaning company—making it a standout choice in a competitive market. The company is fully licensed and exclusively focused on air duct and dryer vent services. With more than 60 ratings on Google Local Services and over 130 verified online reviews, the company has quickly gained traction for its customer satisfaction and service quality. Every client receives a free estimate, helping eliminate uncertainty and ensuring that services are aligned with real needs and budget expectations. Optimized for Local Search Visibility As more customers search for essential home services online, XPro's digital strategy is designed to align with Google's local search behavior. Instead of targeting high-competition keywords, XPro optimizes for medium-difficulty phrases that reflect real buyer intent, including: air duct cleaning near me dryer vent cleaning Chicago vent cleaning cost HVAC duct cleaning $99 air duct cleaning By targeting keywords with geographic and transactional intent, XPro strengthens both its Google search rankings and local map visibility, helping potential customers find and choose their services faster. Core Services Air Duct Cleaning – Removes dust, allergens, and debris for better airflow and indoor air quality Dryer Vent Cleaning – Clears hazardous lint buildup to reduce fire risk and improve efficiency Dryer Pipe Replacement – Replaces damaged or outdated dryer ductwork Vent Cover Replacement – Updates worn or broken vent covers for a cleaner and more functional system These services are especially important in older homes, apartment buildings, and multi-unit properties common in the greater Chicago area. Affordable Pricing with No Surprises XPro Air Duct Cleaning is known for its fair, flat-rate pricing and promotional packages. One of the company's most popular offers is its $99 maintenance air duct cleaning service, designed to make home maintenance affordable without sacrificing professionalism or results. By focusing on essential services at accessible rates, the company attracts both first-time homeowners and experienced property managers looking for long-term maintenance partners. Service Coverage XPro serves the entire Chicago metropolitan area, including downtown Chicago, North Side, South Side, and surrounding suburbs. The team is equipped to handle both urgent cleanings and routine maintenance projects, with flexible scheduling and responsive support. Popular service-related search terms include: dryer vent cleaning near me air duct cleaning services duct cleaning in Chicago vent cleaning professionals HVAC vent maintenance Areas Served Across Greater Chicago XPro Air Duct Cleaning & Dryer Vent Cleaning proudly serves a wide range of communities throughout the Greater Chicago area. Whether in the heart of the city or the surrounding suburbs, the company ensures fast response times and consistent service quality across all locations. Popular service areas include: Downtown Chicago North Side neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Uptown, Rogers Park, and Edgewater South Side communities like Hyde Park, Bronzeville, South Shore, and Beverly West Side areas including Austin, Humboldt Park, and Garfield Park Northwest Side suburbs such as Skokie, Niles, Park Ridge, and Des Plaines North Shore suburbs like Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, and Glencoe Western suburbs including Oak Park, Berwyn, Cicero, Elmhurst, and Hinsdale Southwest suburbs like Orland Park, Tinley Park, Oak Lawn, and Palos Hills Far western and southern suburbs such as Naperville, Aurora, Joliet, and Homewood By offering services across these diverse regions, XPro ensures that residents and business owners searching for 'air duct cleaning in Evanston,' 'dryer vent service in Oak Park,' or 'HVAC vent cleaning near Tinley Park' can find reliable, local expertise. To view full coverage or request service in your area, visit or call +1 (872) 873-2949. About XPro Air Duct Cleaning XPro Air Duct Cleaning & Dryer Vent Cleaning is a professional cleaning service based in Chicago, Illinois. The company is focused exclusively on air duct and dryer vent maintenance, offering fast, reliable service and transparent pricing. Known for its customer-first approach and extensive local experience, XPro is committed to helping Chicago residents and businesses breathe easier and stay safer. Business Name: XPro Air Duct Cleaning & Dryer Vent CleaningWebsite: +1 (872) 873-2949Service Area: Greater Chicago, IllinoisFree Estimates Available For media inquiries or to request a quote, contact:John PeryPhone: +1 (872) 873-2949Email: info@ XPro Air Duct Cleaning Elevates Indoor Air Quality and Dryer Safety Across Chicago
CTV News
03-07-2025
- Health
- CTV News
How To Choose An Air Purifier
Learn how to choose the right air purifier : compare filters, room sizes, noise levels, and features to find the best option for clean, healthy air. Whether it's wildfire smoke sneaking into your windows, pet dander floating through the air, or just that persistent smell of yesterday's dinner, a good air purifier can seriously upgrade your indoor air quality. But with so many models, acronyms, and marketing claims floating around, choosing the right one can feel like trying to find fresh produce in January. Here's a practical, no-nonsense guide to help you make the right choice for your space, your needs, and your budget. What Exactly Is an Air Purifier? An air purifier pulls in your indoor air, filters out contaminants like dust, pollen, smoke, and odours, and then pushes cleaner air back into your space. Most purifiers rely on filters (ideally True HEPA) and many include activated carbon to absorb VOCs and smells. Bonus: Some models even tackle bacteria and viruses, though you'll want to read the fine print (and the science) before betting your health on UV lights or ionizers. Questions to Ask Before You Buy How Big Is the Room? Air purifiers are sized based on square footage (sq ft or m²). Buying one that's too small for your space is like trying to heat your garage with a toaster. Bedrooms or offices? 100–200 sq ft (9–18 m²) typically only require a compact unit. Open concept living rooms? Look for models rated for 400+ sq ft (37+ m²). Check the CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) — higher means faster filtration. What Do You Want to Remove? Allergies? Look for a True HEPA filter — not 'HEPA-type' or 'HEPA-like'. The real deal captures 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. Smells or VOCs? Make sure your purifier includes activated carbon. Smoke? Check CADR ratings specifically for smoke. Mould? Consider a unit with a pre-filter and good humidity control. Is It for a Bedroom? Look at the noise rating (in decibels). Below 30 dB is whisper-quiet. Over 50 dB? That's white noise territory, which may or may not help you sleep. How Much Energy Will It Use? Since purifiers often run 24/7, energy efficiency matters. Look for Energy Star® certified models (recognized by Natural Resources Canada). Your energy bill will thank you. Types of Air Purifiers True HEPA Filters Captures fine particles like dust, pollen, pet hair, mould spores, and wildfire smoke. Always check for 'True HEPA' — it's a regulated standard. Activated Carbon Filters Essential for removing odours, smoke, and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Especially helpful if you cook often or live with smokers. UV-C Light Claims to neutralize bacteria and viruses using ultraviolet light. Mixed evidence on real-world effectiveness, and bulbs need regular replacement. Use with a healthy dose of skepticism. Ionizers and Ozone Generators Some models 'ionize' the air, charging particles so they clump and fall. The catch? Some ionizers release ozone, which can be irritating or even dangerous at high levels. Look for CARB-certified models if you're considering this route. Features Worth Your Attention Air Quality Sensors & Auto Mode: Detect pollution in real-time and adjust fan speed automatically. Efficient and lazy-friendly. Filter Replacement Indicator: Trust us, you won't remember on your own. Smart Features: App control, Alexa/Google compatibility, scheduling — helpful if you like tech, or forget to turn things off. Sleep Mode: Dims the lights and lowers fan speed for night-time use. Filter Cost & Availability: Some filters cost as much as the machine. Check before you buy — especially if it's a lesser-known brand. Important Numbers to Know CADR Rating: Speed of air cleaning (higher = faster) Coverage Area: Room size in sq ft / m² Noise Level: Measured in dB; <30 dB = quiet Filter Life: Typically 6–12 months; check the cost to replace Energy Use: Energy Star = lower Hydro bills Final Tips One purifier ≠ whole house. You'll need one per major room (or a fancy HVAC-integrated system). Don't forget to factor in filter replacement every 6 to 12 months — and shipping if it's not stocked at Canadian retailers. Our Top Picks for an Air Purifier Our Guide To The Best Air Purifiers In Canada In 2025 (And Where To Get Them) Our Guide To The Best Portable Air Conditioners In Canada In 2025 (And Where To Get Them) Our Guide To The Best Vacuum/Mop Combos In Canada In 2025 (And Where To Get Them) Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We'll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes. The products in this list are ranked by independent third parties. Rankings are based on both reviews and independent testing.
Entrepreneur
30-06-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Why Wellness-Driven Real Estate is the Future of Urban Living
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Can a residential building protect your health? In 2003, I wouldn't have asked that question. I was a young entrepreneur launching Fakhruddin Properties with a purely commercial lens. At the same time, someone close to me was battling chronic respiratory issues. That experience opened my eyes to a deeper challenge—our indoor environments can impact our long-term health far more than we realize. What began as a personal concern soon evolved into a business philosophy: could we create a commercially viable real estate model that prioritizes wellness? Could sustainability move from an ethical ideal to a competitive advantage? From Illness to Innovation Indoor air quality in the GCC is a growing concern. In a region reliant on sealed buildings and 24/7 air-conditioning, the idea of "sick buildings" isn't just theoretical—it's a lived reality. Rather than offer cosmetic solutions, we committed to engineering change from the inside out. With the help of our Chief Sustainability Officer, Dr. Samiullah Khan—certified by Delft University of Technology in Comfort and Health in Buildings—we studied how air, light, sound, temperature, and humidity collectively impact wellness. Instead of buying generic systems off the shelf, we built our own: advanced smart air purification and handling systems that filter out allergens and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are now standard across all our homes. The result? Healthier residents. Fewer complaints. And a differentiated product that sets us apart in a saturated market. Buildings That Breathe—and Grow Sustainability doesn't stop at energy efficiency. We asked: could a building produce something of value, not just consume? That led us to hydroponic farming. By recycling chilled water from our radiant cooling system—a climate tech that cuts emissions and boosts energy efficiency—we nourished on-site produce in vertical farms. Enter: The Greenhouse Café. Our in-house café concept uses and sells the vegetables grown inside the very building. Fresh basil, tomatoes, and curry leaves are available to residents at prices lower than Dubai supermarkets. It's a closed-loop, zero-waste ecosystem—and a new revenue stream. Sustainability became more than an initiative. It became a business unit. Proof That Purpose Pays Our first test case came in 2025, when we launched a Food Sharing program at Trafalgar Central in International City. A community fridge allowed residents to share excess food, cutting household waste and sparking unexpected levels of engagement. The pilot's success encouraged us to expand the program across all new developments. We also found that investors—especially those focused on long-term value—were paying attention. According to a 2024 Property Finder study, 70% of investors are willing to pay a premium for green features. In our own sales interactions, we saw that wellness features had moved from "nice-to-have" to "essential." Waste Not, Win More Our next challenge: could we rethink building waste entirely? In early 2025, we launched the 90:90 Waste Management Initiative at Trafalgar Central, aiming to divert 90% of waste from landfills. It wasn't just about compliance—it was about future-proofing. With color-coded bags, composting units inside the building, and clear resident education, we created Dubai's first zero-cost, fully integrated waste system for residential towers. The system is fully funded by Fakhruddin Properties, meaning no added operational cost for residents or owners. It's an investment in both sustainability and brand equity. Sustainability as Strategy From the outset, we aligned ourselves with the UAE's Net Zero 2050, Dubai Municipality's landfill eradication plan, and the Circular Economy Policy 2021–2031. Why? Because entrepreneurs who anticipate policy shifts before they're enforced are the ones who innovate ahead of the curve. This alignment hasn't just earned us recognition—it's unlocked long-term commercial advantages. Buyers trust future-ready developments. Governments support compliant operators. And the industry begins to shift when proof of concept meets proof of profit. Lessons for the Entrepreneurial Mindset Sustainable business ideas don't always begin with fanfare. Sometimes they begin with frustration, or compassion, or simply noticing what others overlook. In our case, it began with a breath. We've since learned that solving real problems—deeply, sustainably, and systemically—isn't just good ethics. It's good economics. 5 Ways to Turn a Problem into a Business Advantage Start with a real pain point. The most scalable ideas often come from personal frustration or unmet community needs. Understand the system, not just the symptom. Study the technical, economic, and behavioral dynamics before designing a solution. Design for scale, not just novelty. Build business models that are replicable and regionally adaptable. Partner with public entities. Collaborating with municipalities, universities, and policy makers gives your solution legitimacy and reach. Use data as proof. Whether it's energy saved or resident retention, numbers make your impact visible—and investable. The future of entrepreneurship isn't invention alone—it's intention. And solving problems sustainably might just be the smartest business decision we make. Related: Water, Wellness, and Sustainability: How GROHE's Smart Bathroom Innovation Supports Healthcare
