When thinking of pollution, most people immediately think outdoors, but the reality is indoor air pollution is a real problem. These air contaminants are found everywhere and sadly permeate our homes. Air pollution can directly affect your quality of life due to its adverse effects such as breathing problems and increased allergies. Studies show that indoor air pollution levels can sometimes be two to five times higher that outdoors. Even more shocking, most people are surprised to find out that the biggest contributors to indoor air pollution are usually standard household products that most of us use.
Galmiche & Sons is committed to providing our customers with outstanding air quality and limiting their exposure indoor air pollution. Our team of heating & air conditioning specialists can help give you the best quality air in your home. In St. Louis and the surrounding areas, why not schedule a consultation with us at 314-993-1110.
Household Items That Cause Indoor Air Pollution
Many folks do not realize how much of a role their HVAC system plays in providing clean, quality air in their home. We would not blame you for thinking HVAC simply cools and heats your air. Nevertheless, your system is working to remove indoor air pollution as well. You can help your system perform better by limiting or removing some very common products and sources of indoor air pollution from your home.
This list reveals the biggest sources of indoor air pollution in our homes:
- Candles – They are great for setting the mood or adding a nice scent to your home, but often candles contain a harmful level of formaldehyde. Look at more natural style of candles, such as soy or beeswax.
- Air Freshening Products – While they certainly can smell nice, many air fresheners contain hundreds of chemicals that can be potentially harmful. Headaches, coughs, asthma attacks, and more can be triggered by the contents of air fresheners. Look into a natural air freshener alternative such as essential oils.
- Old Paint Cans – It is highly recommended that you get rid of paint cans you are not using. Paint contains Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that have a major negative impact on breathing. Even when stored in the garage, VOCs can seep into your home’s air.
- Cleaning Products – Lots of household cleaning products are chock full of harmful chemicals. Scented products are particularly bad, as they release air borne particles that linger. Try a mix of vinegar, water, and baking soda as a natural alternative.
- Aerosol Sprays – Another source of harmful chemicals that affect your indoor air quality is aerosol sprays such as hairspray. Like other polluting items, investigate natural and organic alternatives to aerosol sprays.
We Can Help You Limit Exposure to Air Pollution Inside Your Home
In addition to eliminating these harmful items from your home, you can also upgrade your heating and cooling system to limit indoor pollution. Things like air scrubbers and HEPA filters are a great place to start.
In St. Louis and the surrounding areas, if you would like to speak to someone about ensuring your heating & air conditioning unit is combating indoor air pollution or to find out how you can add to your system to improve IAQ, give us a call at 314-993-1110.
