Category: Air Quality

How many times have you thought about the air you’re breathing? Do you think about it at home? At work? Do you think about it when you’re out shopping? Probably not, but you should be aware that the indoor air quality (IAQ) in both residential and commercial establishments may be very poor, creating a potentially harmful environment. In an effort to help raise awareness, we have put together this overview of common Indoor Air Quality myths and facts that every person should be aware of. Indoor Air Quality Facts: Health Concerns of Poor Indoor Air Quality Poor IAQ can cause a number of health problems, including: allergies, irritation of the eyes, skin, nose and throat, frequent headaches, sinus congestion, dizziness, nausea, hypersensitivity, coughing, sneezing and shortness of breath. Causes of Poor Indoor Air Quality Some common air contaminants that may lower IAQ include: tobacco smoke, mold spores, dust, pet dander, dust mites and carbon monoxide among others. The number and types of indoor air contaminants will vary from one establishment to another. Your home will not have all the same contaminants as your local store, or nearby business. Indoor Air Quality Myths: Air Pollution is an Outdoor Problem When people

The quality of the air you breathe has an impact on your health. This is why maintaining good indoor air quality, or IAQ, in the home and workplace are so important. Indoor smoking bans across the nation have done a lot to improve indoor air but many other airborne contaminants are still IAQ threats. Top Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Threats Gas Appliances Carbon monoxide has no color or odor and it can be deadly. A small amount of this noxious gas is released every time a gas appliance turns on. The exposure is minimal unless there is something wrong with the equipment. You should have your gas appliances inspected by a professional as part of your preventive home maintenance plan. Install home CO alarms away from vents and choose devices that signal a warning when it is time for replacement. Paint And Furniture The PFCs (perfluorinated compounds) found in wall paint and protective coatings for carpeting and the upholstery on your furniture are helpful for repelling stains and water but they are toxic when released into the air. Scented Fragrances Many scented products, including cleaners, air fresheners, shampoos, lotions and bath soaps emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs gain

If you think you can escape polluted air indoors, think again. Depending on your habits, lifestyle and your home’s structure, the air indoors may present more problems than the air you breathe outdoors. With the addition of air quality products that can purify air by reducing and eliminating unwanted pollutants, you and your family can enjoy a healthier and fresher environment indoors. Some of the most important air quality products you should consider include: Air Purifiers An air purifier is one of the most popular air quality products installed in homes where there are household members who suffer from asthma and allergies. Air purifiers work by passing air through filters to remove particles and other pollutants. Once the air comes out of the purifier, its pollutant content is significantly reduced. Many of today’s cooling and heating systems have a built-in air purifier, although many homes still install a stand-alone unit for extra protection. Some of the most common types of air purifiers sold in the market include: HEPA filters – High Efficiency Particulate Air purifiers that can eliminate particulates as small as 0.3 micrometers Ozone Generators – capable of turning oxygen molecules into ozone that disinfects the air and removes unpleasant odor