Damp buildings have been causally connected to childhood asthma. As homes get tighter, pollutants are concentrated inside our homes. Those are just a few examples of why having a healthy home matters.

But first, you have to know what to measure, so you can manage it. This field is known as Indoor Air Quality. A high performing home manages IAQ automatically, but first you have to understand what "healthy" means for various pollutants. This guide will break down everything you need to know about:

• Particulate Matter: Small dust that we can not only inhale, but that can directly enter our bloodstream. Learn what levels to be alarmed about, how to measure them, and how to reduce them.
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Chemical pollutants in your home. What they are, and how to reduce them.
• Radon: A radioactive gas common in basements. Learn how to reduce it.
• Humidity: Too high and you get mold. Too dry and health issues like the flu and sinus problems proliferate. Learn what healthy levels are.
• Microbiome: This bleeding edge subject looks like it's going to be very important. It's the collection of microbes in your body, in your home, and beyond. It's a huge part of having a healthy home. What do we know? Find out.

That's just a sneak peek of what's in Energy Smart's Healthy Home Guide. Learn how to reduce health risks for your family, it's not as hard as you think!