We often think about sprawling cities or towering smokestacks when we think about air quality and pollutants. However, we should also consider the quality of the air inside our homes and businesses. The quality of indoor air can have equal, if not greater, effects on our lives, well-being, and health. Understanding what causes indoor air pollutants and the risk they pose to our health is the first step toward higher quality indoor air.
Causes of poor indoor air quality
Because indoor air may be more stagnant than the air outdoors, pollutants, dust, and debris are often more concentrated than outdoors. There are many sources of indoor air pollution, including:
- Fuel-burning appliances
- Tobacco products
- Pets
- Household cleaning products
- Central heating or cooling systems
- Pests
- Outdoor air pollution
- Building materials, such as certain wood products or newly installed flooring or carpet
- Asbestos
- Carbon monoxide
- Pesticides
- Fireplaces or chimneys
Immediate effects of poor indoor air quality
Depending on the type of pollutant or debris causing poor indoor air quality, some health effects may show up shortly after exposure. These immediate effects of poor indoor air quality could include:
- Irritated eyes, nose, and throat
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Asthma, aggravated asthma symptoms, or other breathing issues
The likelihood of an immediate reaction to a pollutant in an indoor space can depend on several factors, such as age, health, and previous conditions. For example, if someone already suffers from symptoms related to allergies, they may experience additional symptoms quicker when allergens are present in large quantities in the indoor air they are breathing. This could include people who are allergic to pet dander when they enter a home of someone with multiple pets.
Immediate symptoms may be easier to treat and are generally short-term. If the source of the pollutant is identified or the person leaves the area, they may experience quick relief from the symptoms.
Long-term effects of poor indoor air quality
If a person is exposed to poor air quality for many years, long-term effects may occur. These could include:
- Respiratory diseases
- Heart disease
- Cancer
Ways to control indoor air quality
Because of the risks associated with poor air quality, both short- and long-term, it’s easy to understand why having good indoor air quality is so important. What is the best way to control indoor air quality and promote good indoor air quality?
- Source control
The most effective way to improve the quality of the air in your home is to eliminate the source of the poor air. If mold is the problem, you could have the affected area professionally cleaned and increase circulation through the use of fans to prevent additional mold growth. - Air cleaners
Air purifiers, fans, and even open windows can all count as air cleaners, as they help move air, remove impurities, and introduce fresh, clean indoor air. - Change filters
Fans, HVAC systems, and even vacuums have filters that help filter out debris and pollutants in the air. Make sure you are changing and cleaning filters regularly to ensure these devices can keep doing their job. - Ventilation improvements
Another way to control the quality of indoor air is to improve the ventilation in your home or business. Most buildings have a heating and cooling system that moves air throughout
Need An Air Quality Assessment? Reach Out To Central Heating!
If you’re starting to question your home’s air quality, reach out to the professionals at Central Heating today! Our experienced staff is here to make sure you receive the best care and home air.