If you're experiencing symptoms like headaches, eye irritation, fatigue, dry throat, nasal congestion, dizziness, and nausea at home, trust me, it's time to clean your indoor air.
You might think your indoor air is perfectly clean, but would you believe me if I told you that indoor air can be worse than outdoor air? According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air quality can be up to five times worse than outdoor air quality. What's even more alarming is that, according to the World Health Organization, the combined effects of environmental and household air pollution lead to 6.7 million premature deaths each year.
What Are The 4 Major Indoor Air Pollutants?
Asbestos
Asbestos was commonly used in building materials like insulation, tiles, and roofing due to its heat resistance and durability. However, when these materials degrade or are disturbed during renovation or demolition, asbestos fibers can become airborne. Occupants can then inhale these fibers, leading to serious health issues such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Older buildings, particularly those constructed before the 1980s, may still contain asbestos-containing materials.
Biological Pollutants
Biological pollutants encompass a variety of organisms like mold, bacteria, viruses, dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. These contaminants thrive in warm, humid environments and can accumulate in poorly ventilated areas. Mold growth, for instance, often occurs in damp areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. Exposure to biological pollutants can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, respiratory infections, and other health problems. Effective strategies to control biological pollutants include reducing humidity levels, fixing leaks promptly, and regularly cleaning and vacuuming to remove dust and pet dander.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels such as gas, oil, wood, and coal. Common indoor sources of CO include malfunctioning heating systems, gas stoves, fireplaces, and vehicle exhaust in attached garages. Since CO is odorless and colorless, it can be challenging to detect without proper monitoring equipment. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result in symptoms ranging from headaches and dizziness to unconsciousness and death. To prevent CO buildup, ensure proper ventilation of combustion appliances, install CO detectors in sleeping areas, and schedule regular maintenance of heating systems.
Formaldehyde/Pressed Wood Products
Formaldehyde is a volatile organic compound (VOC) found in various building materials and household products like plywood, particleboard, insulation, and furniture. It is also present in adhesives, paints, and certain fabrics. Formaldehyde off-gasses into the indoor air over time, especially in newly constructed or renovated spaces. Prolonged exposure to elevated levels of formaldehyde vapor can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as respiratory issues and an increased risk of certain cancers. To reduce formaldehyde exposure, choose low-emission products labeled as "low-VOC" or "no-VOC," increase ventilation, and allow new materials to off-gas in well-ventilated areas before use.
How to Reduce Indoor Air Pollution?
Use Air Purifiers
Using an air purifier can effectively remove indoor air pollutants such as dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and smoke particles. Adding an air purifier to your room is a wise choice. It's important to note that you should Choose Correct Sizes of Air Purifier to Different Rooms. If you want to improve the air quality in your living room or if your room is larger than 3000 square feet, consider opting for a large room air purifier.
Increase Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for diluting and removing indoor air pollutants. Open windows and doors when weather permits to allow fresh outdoor air to circulate indoors. Additionally, use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove cooking fumes, moisture, and other contaminants.
Maintain Cleanliness
Regular cleaning and dusting help reduce indoor pollutants like dust, pet dander, and mold. Use vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA filters to trap fine particles effectively. Wash bedding, curtains, and upholstery regularly to minimize allergen buildup.
Avoid Smoking Indoors
Smoking indoors introduces a multitude of harmful chemicals and particulates into the indoor air, endangering the health of both smokers and nonsmokers. Establish a smoke-free policy indoors and designate outdoor smoking areas away from entry points.
Choose Low-Emission Products
Opt for building materials, furnishings, and household products with low VOC emissions to minimize indoor air pollution. Look for products labeled as "GreenGuard Certified" or "low-VOC" to ensure healthier indoor air quality.
Control Humidity Levels
Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to prevent mold growth and minimize dust mite proliferation. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and crawl spaces, and fix leaks promptly to prevent water damage and mold infestation.
In conclusion, while we often associate pollution with outdoor environments, indoor air quality can be equally, if not more, concerning. The presence of major indoor air pollutants such as asbestos, biological contaminants, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde underscores the importance of addressing indoor air pollution to safeguard our health.
Fortunately, there are effective measures we can take to reduce indoor air pollution and create a healthier living environment. Using air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters is one of the most efficient ways to remove airborne pollutants and improve indoor air quality. Additionally, increasing ventilation, maintaining cleanliness, avoiding indoor smoking, choosing low-emission products, and controlling humidity levels are essential steps in mitigating indoor air pollution.