A ductless heat pump is a wonderful first step in supplying your home with clean, filtered air. Ductless systems have built in filters that can help improve the air quality in your home. This can be beneficial for us all, but especially the elderly, young and anyone dealing with respiratory issues such as asthma or allergies. Ductless systems can filter both large and small particles such as dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold and even odors.You may be wondering if there is anything else you can do in your home to improve the air quality. Houseplants are a great low cost and attractive way to clean your air and benefit your health. But, some plants are just attractive while others can actually go to work for you removing harmful air pollution and chemicals such as formaldehyde, benzene and others.Rubber plants are effective at removing formaldehyde which is often introduced from fiberglass insulation, particleboard, plywood, paints, insulation, wrinkle-free clothing, permanent press materials and cleaning agents. Rubber plants can survive in low light and cool temperatures and are very forgiving with newcomers to indoor gardening. No green thumb required.
Golden Pothos removes all indoor chemicals and is the easiest to grow of all houseplants. The Golden Pothos is a vine with light green heart-shaped leaves colored with gold or cream. It is a hearty plant and can withstand some neglect. It is also very resistant to insect infestation.
Peace Lily removes benzene, xylene and toluene found in nail polish, paints, solvents, and adhesives as well as trichloroethylene (TCE). TCE is a commercial product found in a wide variety of industrial uses such as metal degreasing and dry cleaning. It is also found in printing inks, paints, lacquers, varnishes and adhesives. Peace lily is another easy to care for plant able to thrive in low light but can require heavy watering. Washing the leaves occasionally will help prevent insect attack.
English ivy removes formaldehyde. English Ivy can be adapted to a variety of home and office environments also including ground cover in lobbies, topiaries, and hanging baskets. Ivy is a graceful but vigorous climber and prefers to be fed regularly with a mild fertilizer. Allow to dry slightly between watering.
Ficus removes formaldehyde. The Ficus is a slender, upright plant with dark green foliage. There are two types that grow well in the home: trailing and tree types. Both provide excellent removal of chemical vapors and are highly resistant to insect infestation. Ficus like bright light but don’t always do well with direct sun. It is also best not to let the root ball dry out or move it once established.