Today’s homes are very airtight, which is great for your energy bill. But it’s not so great for air quality, since there are fewer chances for polluted air to escape and fresh air to get in. In fact, the EPA says indoor air quality can be two to five times worse than outdoors due to the lack of ventilation.
Some of the most common indoor air pollutants are:
- Carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal in large concentrations indoors. It’s commonly produced by a malfunctioning gas appliance, like your furnace.
- Radon, an invisible radioactive gas that naturally occurs in rocks and soil. It can seep into your home through cracks or gaps in your foundation. Long-term radon exposure is the number one cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers.
- Volatile organic compounds, which are gases that emit from certain man-made products, like personal care products, air fresheners and cleaning products. They can also be found in paint, furniture, flooring and drapes.
- Pet dander and dust mites
- Tobacco smoke
- Mold
- Too little or too much humidity
For some people, increased indoor air pollution can cause eye, nose and throat irritation as well as headaches. It can also aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms.
The best way to reduce indoor air pollution is to eliminate the source, but that isn’t always possible. That’s why AC Mechanical offers a number of indoor air quality solutions, including improved air filters, air purification systems, humidifiers and dehumidifiers. Ask us about what products would be right for your home’s unique challenges.
