Many homeowners don’t give a second thought to the air quality inside their houses. However, if you or those you live with experience cold-like symptoms at home but rarely anywhere else, you may have poor indoor air quality. While you may see dust motes or cooking fumes in the air, most indoor air pollutants are invisible, yet your respiratory system knows they are there. Fortunately, thanks to modern technology, you don’t have to live with this problem.
Signs of Indoor Pollutants
Seniors, children, and individuals with respiratory problems are most vulnerable to indoor pollutants. Allergic symptoms usually appear with repeated exposure, yet some people experience an allergic response after only one or two exposures. Biological pollutants like mold, dust mites and pet dander can trigger allergy symptoms. Signs of indoor air pollution include:
- Watery eyes
- Coughing
- Dizziness
- Nasal stuffiness
- Eye or skin irritation
- Wheezing
Common Indoor Air Pollutants
Biological and chemical pollutants lurk inside your home. Indoor air quality is frequently worse than outdoor air quality, especially if you have newer windows and doors that provide greater energy efficiency. Consider these indoor air pollutants.
Accumulated Dust and Debris
You may have areas in your home that don’t receive regular cleaning. Dust and debris can accumulate in these areas. Regular cleaning or changing of HVAC air filters can help combat this problem.
Mold and Mildew
These organic contaminants thrive in moist, poorly ventilated areas. Unless you see mold and mildew growing in your bathrooms, you may not realize your home has them.
Chemical Cleaning Products
Household cleaning products containing volatile organic compounds (VOC) represent another hidden source of indoor air pollution. Although you may not smell them once you have finished cleaning, they continue to linger in the air. Regular use of these chemicals can trigger various allergy symptoms. When looking for cleaners, choose those with little or no VOCs. Opening your windows when cleaning reduces the risk of these chemicals lingering in the air.
Tobacco Smoke Residue
Sometimes called third-hand smoke, tobacco smoke residue lingers in your home long after the cigarette is extinguished, clinging to surfaces like furniture, carpeting, walls and clothing. Over time, your items will develop a persistent odor and significant health risks.
Pesticides and Insecticides
These chemical sprays are a popular, easy fix for ridding your home of pests. Although they work well, they markedly affect indoor air quality. Applying these products can lead to respiratory and allergy issues along with long-term health problems.
Improving Indoor Air Quality
Learning what is in your indoor air is a crucial step to improving it. Consider installing an appropriate air purifier to help remove unwanted particles.
Identify pollutants in your home air by scheduling air quality testing from C&C Myers in Charleston, SC.