Improving Indoor Air Quality
An unintended result of the energy-efficient way new homes and buildings are built is that indoor air pollution has increased. Because very little outside air is allowed in, indoor pollutants build up and may cause or increase the severity of a variety of illnesses including heart disease, cancer, and respiratory illnesses. Many symptoms do not present themselves until months or years after exposure. Good air quality in a home or business is vital to the health and well being of the people inside.
There are some air contaminants that are more prevalent in homes and offices. Exposure to these contaminants can cause serious problems, from exacerbating asthma to causing cancer. Below are some of the most common contaminants and how to remove them from the home.
Asbestos
Asbestos was once widely used in the building industry because of its fire-retardant capabilities. Asbestos is a mineral fiber that, when disturbed, emits a dust that can be breathed in. While there are no immediate symptoms that occur when breathing asbestos dust, long-term exposure can be deadly. Asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma have all been tied to asbestos exposure.
A qualified, licensed professional experienced in asbestos removal and clean up should be contracted if removal is necessary. If the asbestos is in an area where it is not likely to be disturbed, simply closing it off may be the best option.
Biological Contaminants
Biological contaminants include pet dander, insects, mice, mold, and mildew. Common symptoms of biological contaminants may include sneezing, watery eyes, lethargy, dizziness, and allergies.
Biological pollutants such as dust mites and pet dander may be greatly reduced in the home by regular vacuuming and cleaning. Mold and mildew can be avoided by decreasing the amount of moisture in basements and bathrooms. Regular maintenance of air and heating systems is another way to reduce moisture in the home and reduce biological contaminants.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide can be released into homes by improperly installed or poorly maintained furnaces, gas stoves, fireplaces, space heaters, or car exhaust from an attached garage. Low levels of carbon monoxide typically cause fatigue and lethargy, while high concentrations can be fatal.
To avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, yearly inspection and maintenance should be performed on all cooling and heating systems. Vents on space heaters and fireplace flues should be inspected and repaired if necessary. Similar to smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors are available to alert occupants of dangerous gas levels.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a chemical used in a wide range of homebuilding products. Additional sources of formaldehyde in the home may include smoking, poorly vented stoves and heaters and even some types of treated fabrics. Low levels of formaldehyde may cause watery, burning eyes and a sore throat. Higher levels can trigger asthma in sensitive individuals.
To reduce formaldehyde exposure, keep the room temperature, humidity, and moisture at moderate levels. Avoid pressed-wood products, or, use exterior grade pressed-wood, which releases less formaldehyde.
Lead
Lead was a common ingredient in house paint for years. Lead paint is the leading cause of lead exposure. Children are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning. Lead can cause behavioral problems, low IQs and short attention spans in children.
A professional should always remove lead paint. Never sand, burn or scrape surfaces where lead paint exists. Do not allow children to play near suspected lead paint areas.
Pesticides
Pesticides are used in the home to kill insects and other pests. The toxic nature of pesticides makes them dangerous to humans as well, but they are especially dangerous for children. Exposure to the chemicals found in pesticides may cause weakness, dizziness, and liver and kidney damage.
The best way to avoid exposure to pesticides is to refrain from using them. Investigate natural ways of dealing with pests. If pesticides are used, follow all instructions carefully. Ventilate the area as much as possible after use. Keep the home as clean as possible to reduce the need for an indoor pesticide.
Radon
Radon is a naturally occurring gas caused by the decay of uranium in the soil. The gas moves up through the soil and into homes. Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.
Test kits are available to test radon levels in homes. Sealing cracks and holes in building foundations may reduce levels. A vent pipe and fan system can be installed to vent radon from under a house to the outside air.
Sick Building Syndrome
Sick building syndrome is a term used to describe an occurrence when building occupants experience health problems for which no specific illness can be determined. Typical symptoms include coughing, fatigue, itchy skin and fatigue.
It is difficult to pinpoint the cause of sick building syndrome. A combination of solutions, including installation of air filters, prohibiting smoking indoors, providing better ventilation, and maintaining cooling and heating systems may all help to reduce the pollutants that cause sick building syndrome.
Maintaining Good Air Quality in the Home
Common sense and home maintenance can greatly reduce the risk of health problems associated with indoor air pollutants. Regular cleaning, maintaining appliances and home heating systems, reducing indoor moisture and moderating temperatures all work together to greatly reduce contaminants and create good air quality in the home.