Many homeowners often don’t realize that indoor pollution can be up too 100 times worse than outside. Contaminants from detergents, dust, pet dander and pollen can infiltrate your home. Here are four factors that impact your indoor air quality in Clovis, NM:
Impact of Ventilation on Indoor Air Quality
According to statistics from the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans spend 90% of their time indoors. Unfortunately, seniors and people with respiratory conditions are more likely to stay in the house.
Additionally, contaminant levels in households have risen in recent times. That is due to developments in construction that aim to create an air-tight building envelope. Without proper mechanical ventilation, the indoor air becomes stagnant and stuffy.
Pollution From Indoor Combustion Processes
The combustion of wood or oil in fireplaces, furnaces and cooking stoves can release harmful contaminants. The combustion process byproducts are carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and particulate matter.
Particulate matter is a mix of minute solid and liquid droplets in the atmosphere. The particles can be 2.5 micrometers in diameter, which is 30 times smaller than the width of human hair. Particulate matter smaller than 10 micrometers can infect your lower lungs, causing severe health complications.
Contaminants From Building Materials and Household Goods
Another indoor source of contaminants is building materials, detergents and household goods. Commercial paint thinners and dry cleaning agents can trigger allergic reactions. Before acquiring an air purifier, perform those tasks outdoors or consider improving your home’s ventilation.
Humidity, Weather and Other Factors
Humidity can encourage the spread of biological contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and microbial. Spring weather can increase the pollen concentration in the atmosphere. Studies also show allergen levels are likely to increase in the future due to the effects of changing weather patterns.
You can address indoor pollution through practical measures such as improving ventilation and avoiding toxic paints. It may be necessary to install an air purification system, especially if some occupants in your house have allergies. Take advantage of free estimates for indoor air quality solutions from I.T.S. Refrigeration & Heating, Inc. today.
Image provided by iStock
