Indoor air pollution is one of the leading causes of air quality problems in the United States. If you still aren’t aware of what makes indoor air quality bad, this guide will round up the top sources of air pollution in your home.
In the latest Annual Air Trends report of the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air problems make up for a fifth of air pollution sources in the country. Most of us are not aware of what type of air problems we have at home, and that can be a big issue. Indoor air pollutants can have detrimental effects on the environment, human health, and home comfort.
Clean your dryer vent
If you’re already looking for dryer vent cleaning in Boise, Idaho and other places, you are one step closer to achieving optimum IAQ (indoor air quality in your home). If your dryer takes longer to dry your clothes or if it starts overheating, your dryer vent is most likely clogged with lint. Not only does this put you at high risk of fire, but IAQ is also significantly decreased.
Biological pollutants
Under this category are biological contaminants such as viruses, bacteria, animal dander, mites, cockroaches, and pollen. These contaminants have sporadic growth when given the right conditions. To keep these pollutants from affecting your health, make sure the humidity level in the house is controlled. Moreover, get rid of standing water, water-damaged materials, and other places where bacteria and insects can thrive.
Secondhand smoke
Secondhand smoke from any tobacco source puts everyone in the house at risk for numerous conditions, such as cancer and heart disease. Opening a window to air it out is not enough. To eliminate secondhand smoke from your home, don’t let anyone smoke indoors or anywhere near windows and doors.
Volatile organic compounds
Also referred to as VOC, volatile organic compounds are gases emitted from solids or liquids. Common sources of VOCs are paint, wood preservatives, hobby supplies, pesticide, aerosol sprays, cleaning materials, paint strippers, air fresheners, and other products that are made with organic chemicals. Aside from reducing the IAQ of the home, these VOCs have numerous harmful effects on health.
To reduce the presence of VOCs in the air, increase ventilation in the house, store paints and cleaning materials properly, and limit the use of household products that can be sources of VOCs.
Cooking appliances
A significant contributor to household air pollution is cookstove smoke. As much as possible, don’t use solid materials for cooking. Things such as wood, charcoal, and dung, which are burned to use for cooking, create a big risk for both the environment and human health. Alternatively, opt for a cookstove that is clean, safe, and efficient, which doesn’t use solid burning materials.
Pesticides
Pesticides may get rid of your pest problem, but they can create another problem with IAQ. If you can’t eliminate the use of pesticides entirely, reduce the application and be sure to follow the manufacturers’ instructions. As much as possible, choose non-chemical pest control methods as well.
Air pollution is just one of the biggest problems that the Earth faces today. Reduce air pollution by starting at home and following these useful tips to improve your indoor air quality, which will keep you and your family safe, as well as reduce the impact on the environment.