Indoor air quality is important because it affects the health and mood of everyone who lives or works in a home. The quality of indoor air is often overlooked because people are so focused on the quality of outdoor air. However, indoor air quality is just as important because it’s what you’re breathing every day. The good news is that indoor air pollution is often much easier to control than outdoor pollution. There are many sources of indoor air pollution, but some of the most common culprits are dust, pet dander, tobacco smoke, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Let’s take a look at some of the most common indoor air pollutants and tips on how to avoid them:
Dust
Dust is one of the most common indoor air pollutants. Dust mites and other types of indoor dust can cause allergic reactions, especially in people with sensitive skin. Dust mites are microscopic creatures that feed on human skin cells, so they’re found in most homes. Some species of dust mites are known to trigger allergic reactions in as many as 50% of the population. The best way to avoid dust mites is to keep the air in your home as dry as possible. This can be accomplished by using a dehumidifier or air conditioner, avoiding frequent water damage, cleaning regularly, and using mesh filters in your HVAC system.
Pet Dander
Pet dander is another common source of indoor air pollution. Pets often shed hair and dander, which can be a health hazard for people with allergies. There are several ways you can reduce the amount of pet dander in your home. You can buy a vacuum with a special filter to trap pet hair and dander. You can also bathe and groom your pets less frequently to reduce the amount of dander in your home. You can also install a HEPA filter in your HVAC system to trap pet dander before it enters your home.
Tobacco Smoke
Tobacco smoke is another common source of indoor air pollution. It’s estimated that about 46% of homes contain some level of tobacco smoke, although most of this smoke comes from cigarettes. Tobacco smoke contains a number of harmful chemicals, including benzopyrene, formaldehyde, and ammonia. It’s important to note that indoor smoking is illegal in many states, including California. If you live in a home where someone is smoking indoors, you should open a window as much as possible. You can also install a carbon monoxide monitor to alert you if the levels in your home become unsafe.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is another common source of indoor air pollution. It’s a by-product of burning fuel, such as natural gas, oil, and wood. Carbon monoxide can be very dangerous, especially to people with heart or lung disease. The best way to avoid carbon monoxide is to use a carbon monoxide detector in your home. You can also use a programmable thermostat to lower the temperature in your home when you’re not at home. This will help prevent the escape of carbon monoxide from your home.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are chemicals found in paint, varnish, cleaning products, air fresheners, and other household products. VOCs are dangerous because they can cause a variety of health problems, including headaches, eye irritation, and breathing problems. The best way to avoid VOCs is to use indoor products that are low-VOC. You can also open a window whenever possible to let in fresh, clean outdoor air.
Conclusion
Indoor air pollution is just as important as outdoor air pollution. The good news is that indoor air pollution is often easier to control than outdoor pollution. There are many sources of indoor air pollution, but some of the most common culprits are dust, pet dander, tobacco smoke, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds. The best way to avoid these pollutants is to keep the air in your home as dry as possible, use a carbon monoxide detector, and open a window whenever possible.