Indoor air pollution is a significant health concern, especially for individuals with allergies and asthma. A variety of different factors can affect your air quality, including inadequate ventilation, high temperature and humidity, and toxic products. Unfortunately, a majority of people aren't aware of the threat this indoor air pollution poses to their health.
Detecting Indoor Air Pollution
Sometimes, the sources of indoor air pollution can be difficult to detect and you make it worse without realizing. In fact, a lot of pollution is a result of your activities inside the house. Be on the lookout for these pollutants.
Smoking
Chemicals from any form of tobacco smoking can stay in the air for a very long time. This means you can inhale these chemicals even after the cigarette, pipe or cigar goes out. Commonly referred to as “environmental smoking,” you can run the same risks as direct smoking.
Some of its effects include lung cancer, heart disease, and general irritation of the nose, eyes and the throat. Prolonged exposure to smoke can aggravate or cause asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions.
You can prevent this form of pollution by eliminating all indoor cigarette smoking and keeping your house well-ventilated to prevent the possibility of smoke buildup from indoor fireplaces. You can also install chimneys and flues and have them regularly cleaned and well-maintained.
Pet Dander
Pet dander is more than pet hair. What you actually experience is dried skin cells freely floating in the air and settling on surfaces, such as your carpet and furniture. Pet dander can be a serious problem, especially if you suffer from allergies. At least 10 percent of Americans have pet allergies with cat allergies being the most rampant. it is one of the top sources of indoor air pollution
You can prevent this type of pollution by limiting the number of pets you keep and being neat all the time. Don’t let the pet dander overstay on your furniture or carpet before it is cleaned away.
Allergens and Mold
Several allergens such as mold can be harmful to anyone who is exposed to it for longer periods, and it is always an ignored cause of indoor air pollution. Mold typically grows in warm, dark, and damp areas. Allergens can cause allergic reactions, chronic respiratory conditions, and asthma. Most of the contaminants that grow in moist areas can cause indoor air pollution.
You can prevent these allergens from thriving in your home by keeping it as dry as possible and maintaining a relatively low humidity level. You should also check pipes and stop water drips.
Dust
Dust is also a common cause of air pollution that makes way into your house through various ways including untidiness. The dust particles are so minute such that they will enter your home through doors, windows, chimneys, and even cracks. Sealing your house tightly as a way of conserving energy is a bad idea since the dust won’t find its way out which may lead to chronic respiratory complications.
The best way to eliminate dust from your house is by having proper ventilation which ensures free air circulation. As long as your home isn't adequately ventilated, the air will remain stale and stagnant which leads to indoor air pollution.
Take Care of Your Home’s Air Quality
Your home’s air quality is our top concern. At David Gray Heating & Air, we are here to take care of all your air quality needs. Our trained technicians have the expertise and customer service to makes us a choice you can trust. Contact us to schedule a preventative maintenance appointment.