Your home’s indoor air quality can be a big part of your overall sense of comfort. While modern homes are designed to help keep heating and cooling inside, this can also help trap airborne pollutants. Some come from the outdoors while others are a result of things you buy for cleaning or hobbies. Regardless of where they come from, airborne contaminants can be frustrating to deal with.
Knowing how to fight them starts with knowing what the most common indoor air pollutants are. The local pros at AC Mechanical think you deserve the cleanest, healthiest indoor air possible. We’ve compiled a list of some of the indoor air pollutants you may come across.
Allergens and Microorganisms
Some of the most common airborne pollutants are microorganisms. These tiny, organic particles often come from plants and animals outside your home. In other cases, they may hitch a ride elsewhere before slipping indoors. Many milder microorganisms are allergens, which can aggravate respiratory conditions like allergies or asthma. Others are a little more serious and may make you sick.
- Pollen
- Animal dander
- Viruses
- Bacteria
- Mold and mildew spores
Particulate Matter
Other contaminants are a result of inorganic matter breaking down. This could happen as you cook or clean, and sometimes these particles are large enough for you to see. They may not necessarily make you sick, but they can irritate your throat and sinuses. Other particulates are too small to see with the naked eye and can be a result of complicated chemical reactions, such as combusting fuel.
- Smoke particles
- Dust
- Dirt and debris
- Ash
Chemical Products
Common household products are useful to have in your home for chores, hobbies and more. Unfortunately, many of these products have chemicals or additives like formaldehyde that can become indoor air pollutants. You can help manage these by using the minimal amount required and keeping sprays or liquids away from your nose and mouth.
- Cleaners
- Disinfecting products
- Pesticides
- Paint thinner
- Arts and craft supplies
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Volatile organic compounds include a wide range of gases and vapors emitted from chemical products. These chemicals may be solid or liquid and often have strong odors. While some can come from common household products, others may be brought in while you’re out shopping or running errands.
- Wood varnish
- Paint
- Aerosol sprays
- Wax
- Cosmetics
- Fuels
Clear Up Indoor Air Pollutants with AC Mechanical
If you think your indoor air quality is suffering, it could be a good idea to request an air quality evaluation from AC Mechanical. We sell and service a wide range of quality solutions and will recommend your ideal equipment. This could be a whole-home air purification system or a germicidal UV lamp. Sometimes even adjusting the humidity levels with a humidifier or dehumidifier can help reduce airborne pollutants.
Learn more by getting in touch with the staff at AC Mechanical today. You can reach us by phone at 307-778-0515.
