An EPA report has found that Americans, on average, spend 90% of their time inside their homes, workplaces, and other buildings. One would think that by staying indoors, we are at least protected from the high pollution levels. But that is where you are mistaken. Indoor air pollutants are a growing problem, and it can be 2-5 worse than outdoor air pollution.
We, at Galmiche & Sons, understand how important it is to keep your family safe from the health hazards associated with indoor air pollution. This is why we have compiled a list of 5 common air pollutants found inside your homes. We have also covered some tips for getting rid of these indoor air pollutants. Read on to find out.
To learn more about how you can improve indoor air quality and for help maintaining your HVAC system in your St. Louis home or business, contact us online or call our heating and air conditioning experts today.
Common Types of Indoor Air Pollutants
- Dirt: Something that is unavoidable in most homes is dirt. It can be anywhere and everywhere. Even people coming into your house can bring dirt tracks along with them. If you leave this dirt to accumulate in your house, it can lead to serious health problems.
- Dust: Dust is another common indoor air pollutant found in most homes. It forms a thin coat on surfaces that have not been used or touched for a while. Dust can accumulate on your furniture, appliances, crevices, and even mattresses and other upholstery. It is known to cause allergies and respiratory issues in people.
- Mold: Mold can also find its way into your home, causing a host of health issues. Since it loves moist and damp environments, it usually collects in your bathroom, around the sink and shower. This is why it is always recommended to leave your exhaust fan on after showering to ensure proper ventilation.
- Bacteria: When you think of bacterial contamination, the first place that comes to your mind is usually the bathroom. But it is your home kitchen where bacteria is found in most abundance. The kitchen towels, sponges, and rags often collect a lot of bacteria, and then wet areas also give the bacteria a chance to thrive. Other high-contact surfaces in your house can also carry a lot of germs and bacteria.
- Pet dander: Pet dander is the tiny flakes of skin shed by pets, such as cats and dogs. When these flakes become airborne, they can cause respiratory problems for people who are sensitive to them, such as those with allergies or asthma.
- VOCs: Volatile organic compounds are gases that are emitted into the air from products or processes. Some are harmful themselves, including VOCs that can cause cancer, and others interact with other gases or air pollutants to form dangerous compounds when in the air. VOCs can come from products used to manufacture indoor furnishings like paints, stains, finishes, and other solvents.
How To Combat Indoor Air Pollutants?
Some top things that you can do to eliminate and combat indoor air pollutants and improve indoor air quality include:
- Replace your AC filter with a high efficiency filter, if you feel that the old filters are not doing the job of filtering out the common indoor air pollutants. This will not only help improve indoor air quality but also help your AC function more efficiently.
- Check the air ducts for any clogging, as pet dander, dust, and dirt can accumulate inside them over time.
- Use your cooking vents to remove harmful contaminants that are released from gas stoves. If you do not have a kitchen vent, you can open a window to allow the air to filter out.
- Consider adding indoor plants to freshen up the air inside your home. Small plants like peace lilies and ferns are excellent for pulling contaminants out of the air.
- Vacuum and deep clean your carpets and rugs regularly, as dust and other particles can easily get trapped inside carpet fibers.
- Invest in a dehumidifier to control the humidity levels and prevent the growth of mold in your home.
Need Help Removing Pollution from Your Indoor Air? Call Galmiche & Sons in St. Louis
With preventative maintenance and a little help from Galmiche & Sons, you can easily keep your home free of air pollutants and keep your HVAC system running smoothly. Want to learn more? You can reach out to us at 314-993-1110 or fill out our online contact form.
