These 3 Air Pollutants Are Most Commonly Found In Homes
Indoor air quality is so important because the home is where people spend the majority of their time. Even if they are only home at night, it is crucial that the air they breathe while sleeping is as clean as possible. Three common air pollutants curse homes, all of which are easily avoided if the homeowner is aware of their presence. First, the homeowner has to be able to spot the signs of certain air pollutants and then have the knowledge to fight back and remove the pollutants from their home. Continue reading to learn more!
Homes Are Prone To Excess Moisture
Believe it or not, having too much moisture in the home is considered an air pollutant. Excess moisture is caused by having too much humidity in the house, and when this happens, indoor air quality can be affected.
The indoor air quality (IAQ) lowers because the potential for mold growth significantly increases, which directly harms the IAQ.
Many homes are prone to excess moisture, so it’s important to know how to spot it before mold growth occurs. Some of the easiest ways to spot excess moisture are:
- Damages to wooden doors and other wooden furniture
- Damages to drywall and ceilings
- Clammy hands and skin
- Shortness of breath
- Allergy or asthma symptoms increase
- Fatigue
- Blankets feeling damp
- Noticing wet spots on the walls
It is crucial to get this taken care of before mold starts to grow. Not only does it lead to an expensive repair bill, but it becomes a health hazard to those living in the home.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Are Dangerously Common
It might not seem like it, but volatile organic compounds (VOCs) get used almost daily inside the modern home. So many things are considered VOCs, including:
- Aerosol spray
- Paint
- Paint stripper
- Cleaners and disinfectants
- Dry cleaning products
- Wood preservatives
- Hobby supplies
- Stored fuels (car products)
It is unlikely that humans will stop using these products, but it is important that they know how to use them safely. When using VOCs, homeowners should always make sure they are in a well-ventilated area. They should always make sure they don’t experience any physical symptoms when using the products.
If there are too many VOCs in the air, one may start to cough, feel dizzy or faint, or get a headache.
Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer
Carbon monoxide and carbon monoxide poisoning is probably the most dangerous air pollutant and side effect found on the above-mentioned list. If there is a carbon monoxide leak in the home, every person and pet in the house must evacuate as soon as possible.
That is why it is important to know how to spot the signs of carbon monoxide in the home, just in case the detector is broken. Here are a few of the signs:
- A gas stove that doesn’t work as well
- Dead houseplants
- Feeling dizzy, nauseous, horrible headache, confusion, or something of the like
- Hearing a whistling noise from the gas line
- Seeing white dust near the gas line
Carbon monoxide leaks are some of the quietest common polluters found in the modern home and also the deadliest. It is crucial that homeowners have their house checked for air quality and ensuring all gas detectors work properly. One can never be too careful. Homeowners should have routine maintenance done to ensure their home’s air is a clean as possible!
TR Miller Heating, Cooling & Plumbing Works Hard for Their Community
Plainfield’s own TR Miller Heating & Cooling is the trusted HVAC company homeowners turn to when they are in need of maintenance repairs or replacements. This team of trained and knowledgeable professionals is there to make sure all homes are safe and working efficiently. Call today to learn more about their air quality services!
