Ways to Reduce Ozone

On the road:

  • Drive less, carpool, take the bus, bike, or walk.
  • Run errands after work when it is cooler out (not during the heat of the day), and try combining errands into one trip.
  • Refuel your car after 5pm and stop when the nozzle clicks off. Don't overfill or drip fuel. Fuel creates ozone-causing vapors as it evaporates. 
  • Make sure you keep your vehicle running as efficiently as possible. (A well-maintained vehicle saves you money and produces up to 30 percent less air pollution.)
  • If you plan to idle for more than 30 seconds, please turn off your engine. The myth that you use more fuel turning your car on and off is not true!

 

In the yard:

  • Mow the yard after 5pm on hot summer days.
  • Maintain your gas-powered mower to help it run cleaner (change the air filter, oil, and spark plugs at least once each season). Keep the underside of the mower free of grass build-up. Better yet, use an electric or push mower.
  • Avoid using two-stroke gasoline-powered yard equipment (such as weed trimmers) since they emit a disproportionate share of air pollution. 
  • Avoid fuel spills and drips (use a funnel to refuel equipment). 
  • Choose an alternative to charcoal grilling. If you do use one, light the charcoal with an electric starter or charcoal chimney instead of petroleum distillate charcoal lighter fluids (these emit a lot of harmful vapors).

 

In the home:

  • Avoid solvent-based products, which have pollution causing vapors (VOCs). Use water-based paint, stain and sealants.
  • Avoid flammable household products, which tend to have solvents (some floor wax, furniture polish, fabric cleaners, and insect foggers).
  • Use paint brushes and rollers instead of spray paints (most of which are solvent based).
  • If you must use a solvent-based product, do so in the evening avoiding the heat of the day.
  • Tightly cap all solvents (gasoline, paint thinners, strippers, and degreasers) and store in a cool place to avoid evaporation.
  • Plan major painting, stripping and refinishing projects for spring and fall to avoid summer heat and sun which react with vapors to create ozone pollution.

 

 

Please contact Jannette Whitcomb at 970-920-5069 with any ozone questions.