Almost all of our time is spent indoors. Therefore, if polluted, the air that we breathe indoors is more dangerous than the air outdoors. Without the proper cautionary measures, the negative effects of poor indoor air quality are sure to be noticed.
Indoor Dangers
When there is indoor air pollution, spending long periods of time inside your home can have multiple negative effects such as:
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Irritation of the nose, eyes, and throat
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Headaches, fatigue, and dizziness
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Increased incidence of allergies and toxin load
Despite the fact that these dangers exist as a result of poor indoor air quality, there are options to treat and possibly even eliminate many of these dangers.
Causes of Poor Indoor Air Quality
The four main sources of poor indoor air include:
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Inadequate Ventilation: Ventilation is the process in which outdoor air is introduced to an indoor space. Ventilation is used to transport fresh air into homes in order to prevent the air from becoming “stale.” However, sometimes, pollution from the air outdoors enters homes through the ventilation, resulting in indoor air pollution and its consequences.
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Carbon Monoxide (CO): Carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless and tasteless gas. If this gas is not properly dealt with, it can be extremely dangerous to home occupants. The most common sources of this form of indoor air pollution are gas stoves, fireplaces, gas dryers, furnaces, and water heaters.
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Radon: Radon, like carbon monoxide, is an odorless and tasteless gas. This gas is known to arise from the soil and bedrock beneath homes. If it is not dealt with properly, this form of indoor air pollution has the potential to cause cancer.
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Smoke (Tobacco, Marijuana, Vape, etc.): Whatever the source of the smoke and whether it is coming from outdoors or originating inside, it is a form of indoor air pollution. Smoke can irritate the nose as well as the lungs.
Methods to Treat/Eliminate Indoor Air Pollution
In addition to a standard air conditioner, other methods that provide treatment/elimination of indoor air pollution include:
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Humidifier: Forces moisture into indoor air; helps with dry eyes, sore throat, etc.
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Air Purifier: Uses a system of internal fans to pull the air in your home through a series of filters that remove harmful airborne particles; helps eliminate allergens, trap smoke, etc.
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UV-C Sanitizer: Produces strong enough UV-C light in circulating air systems to make them inhospitable environments to harmful microorganisms; helps eliminate bacteria, viruses, etc.
*AMS Air Conditioning and Heating can consult you on the best method to treat/eliminate indoor air pollution that you might be experiencing and help you install the best option to deal with the issue. Cleaner and safer air is in reach!*
