Air Quality in the Home

Quick Facts... 

• Indoor air quality can be worse than that of outdoor air.
• Problems can arise from moisture, insects, pets, appliances, radon, materials used in household products and furnishings, smoke and other sources.
• Effects range from minor annoyances to major health risks.
• Remedies include ventilation, cleaning, moisture control, inspections, and following manufacturers' directions when using appliances and products.  

   

  Signs of indoor air quality problems include:  
• Moisture and biological pollutants such as molds, mildew, dust mites, animal dander and cockroaches. Issues caused from high humidity levels, inadequate ventilation, poorly maintained humidifiers and air conditioners.
• Combustion products, including carbon monoxide, from un-vented fossil fuel space heaters, un-vented gas stoves or ovens, and back-drafting from furnaces and water heaters.
• Formaldehyde from durable press draperies or other textiles, particle board products such as cabinets, furniture framing, and adhesives.
• Radon, a radioactive gas from soil and rock beneath and around the home's foundation, groundwater wells and some building materials.
• Household products and furnishings such as paints, solvents, air fresheners, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned clothing, aerosol sprays, adhesives, and fabric additives used in carpeting or furniture which can release volatile organic compounds.
• Asbestos found in most homes more than 20 years old. Sources include deteriorating, damaged or disturbed pipe insulation, fire retardant, acoustical material and floor tiles.
• Lead from lead-based paint dust created when removing paint by sanding, scraping or burning.
• Particulates from dust and pollen, fireplaces, wood stoves, kerosene heaters and un-vented gas space heaters.
• Tobacco smoke, which produces particulates, combustion products and formaldehyde.

   

  Testing

• Testing for indoor air quality problems is quick and relatively inexpensive. Feel free to call and discuss any issues that you are concerned about. Often a quick visual inspection can determine most problems, other problems may need a more extensive investigation. There are many solutions to air quality problems and I am happy to discuss them with you. 

   

   

Contact Jeff