Indoor Air Contaminants
What Can I Do About Indoor Air Contaminants?
Did you know that indoor air can be from two to five times more contaminated than outdoor air? This is a big concern for us Americans who spend 90% of our time indoors! In the US, the top five air quality issues all stem from indoor pollutants like bacteria, viruses, dust particles, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), according to the EPA. How can we protect our families and ourselves from bad indoor air?
Are you at risk of exposure to indoor air pollutants?
If you’re not keeping up with your home’s HVAC system maintenance, you are at risk for exposure to unsafe indoor contaminants. Elderly people and young children who tend to spend most of their time at home are more likely to be affected by poor indoor air quality. If you suffer from a weak immune system, allergies, asthma, or a cardiovascular condition you’re even more at risk.What effects can exposure to indoor air contaminants have?
Some of the warning signs are fairly common and could be confused as a simple cold or allergies. But they can be a sign of a larger air quality issue. Symptoms may include:- Sneezing
- Dizziness
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Respiratory congestion
- Fatigue
What can you do about indoor air pollutants?
There are many simple preventative measures you can take to improve indoor air quality. Here are some steps you can take:- Change your AC filter.
- Use combustion products with caution.
- Check your air ducts.
- Make sure all water heaters, furnaces, and stoves ventilate properly.
- Control indoor humidity.
- Keep your home clean.
- Use indoor plants as natural air filters.