3 Indoor Air Pollutants Every Homeowner Needs To Know About
Indoor air quality (IAQ) is extremely important because people spend most of their time in the home. Even those that work a lot will spend their evenings at home. The time spent at home is the last place anyone wants to worry about getting sick, but when it is filled with indoor pollutants, it is safe. It is crucial for homeowners to know about the three most common indoor air pollutants and why they are so harmful and how to rid their homes of these pollutants in the first place.
The best way for homeowners to prevent indoor air pollutants is to keep up with HVAC cleanings and maintain their homes' air quality via professional maintenance.
A Home With Excess Moisture Is a Breeding Ground for Pollutants
Dehumidifiers work wonders to remove moisture and restore the humidity balance within the home. Of course, homeowners have to know how to spot when their home has excess moisture in the first place. Some key signs that there is excess moisture in the home are:
- A musty smell in the home
- Doors that stick when opening and closing them
- Foggy windows
- A heavy, warm atmosphere in the home
If the home has too much moisture in the air for too long, it can lead to mold growth in dark, hard-to-reach areas. Typically, mold grows in the areas that don't get checked often either. When homeowners suspect excess moisture in their homes, they should check those dark places for mold growth as they will need to be treated as soon as possible. Otherwise, they should have a dehumidifier installed to restore humidity balance in the home.
It's Time To Learn About Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) 
Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs, are often the most common pollutants found inside the home. They come from things like:
- Paints, solvents, and paint strippers
- Hairspray and other aerosol sprays
- Cleaners and disinfectants
- Air fresheners
- Dry cleaned clothes
- Pesticides
Yes, VOCs are even common in air fresheners. So how would a homeowner get rid of an air pollutant that makes their home smell good in the first place? The best way is to use all-natural air fresheners and to reduce the use of VOCs altogether.
VOCs are harmful to human health when used for extended periods, so it's important to reduce the use of these products as much as possible. The common use of VOCs can lead to things like:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Coughing
- Eye, ear, and throat irritation
- Damage to liver, kidneys, and nervous system
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
The Threat of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and What To Do
Carbon monoxide poisoning is the formal way of saying that there is a gas leak inside the home. As one can imagine, a gas leak is one of the most dangerous pollutants that can happen to a home and is also one of the most common.
When humans are exposed to a gas leak, it can cause symptoms of confusion and illness in a matter of minutes. Those over-exposed to a gas leak could end up in the hospital or even die from the poisoning.
Homeowners should have their homes regularly checked to ensure their gas line works efficiently along with their carbon monoxide detectors. This is both one of the easiest pollutants to prevent and one of the easiest to miss because it is typically silent.
Boutwell's Air Masters Has the Safety Tips Homeowners Need To Know
Boutwell's Air Masters professionals want homeowners to be prepared for anything, and knowing about indoor air quality is the first step. They've served Pensacola, FL since 1973, and homeowners trust their expertise. Regardless of the air issue, they are always there to help. Call today to schedule air quality service!
