What Causes Indoor Air Pollution?

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When people think of air pollution, they think of smog surrounding big cities, but this only refers to outdoor air pollution. Indoor air pollution can be even more dangerous because it’s the air we breathe all day and night inside our own homes and offices.

Indoor air pollution occurs when your indoor air becomes contaminated and the pollutants are not filtered out. These air pollutants can be detrimental to your health and can even lead to respiratory issues.

Because indoor air pollution can be so harmful, it’s important to know what causes it and to define the steps we can take to make sure we are breathing clean air.

The Different Causes Of Air Pollution

Toxic fumes, improper ventilation, humidity, and extreme temperature can all lead to indoor air pollution. Here we’ll discuss the leading cause of indoor air pollution in the United States.

1. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a leading cause of indoor air pollution in the United States. Although the production of the colorless gas was banned in the U.S. in 1970, it can still be found in paints, wood floors, and sealants. Formaldehyde is often used as a permanent adhesive in carpets and upholstery. This toxin has a pungent smell and can be extremely harmful.

2. Radon

Radon can be found in various types of bedrock and building materials underneath your home. This toxin can get into the walls of your home and be a big contributor to your home’s indoor air pollution.

3. Biological Pollutants

Mildew, bacteria, mold, pollen, dust, and viruses are all biological pollutants that can contaminate the air we breathe. These pollutants can enter your home from outside and if not dealt with correctly, can make you and your family sick.

4. Poor Ventilation

If your home doesn’t have adequate ventilation then you are not allowing enough outdoor air in or enough bad indoor air out. Letting fresh air into your home helps circulate any pollutants that might have been accumulating indoors. Allowing these air pollutants to sit can lead to poor indoor air quality that can result in health problems.

5. Infrequent Cleaning

Dust and other debris can accumulate quickly on your floors and countertops. Regular cleaning can help remove these potential air pollutants. People that don’t clean their homes regularly can suffer the consequences of indoor air pollution. Be sure to vacuum your home, clean your countertops, and wash your blankets and linens regularly.

6. Old HVAC Filters

If you are not changing your air filters in your HVAC system frequently enough, this can result in toxins circulating throughout your home. It’s important to have your HVAC system maintained regularly and have new filters installed. The air filters work to filter out any harmful toxins circulating in your home.

Preventing Indoor Air Pollution With Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric

There are steps you can take to improve your indoor air quality. Here are some of our top tips for preventing indoor air pollution in your home.

• Clean your home regularly with environmentally friendly products.
• Look out for any signs of mold or mildew in your home and have it treated by a professional company immediately.
• Have your HVAC system maintained regularly and replace your filters frequently.
• Invest in a dehumidifier to prevent moisture build-up that can result in mold.
• Consider getting an air purifier installed into your home or HVAC system to filter out any potential pollutants.
• Make sure to use a high-quality vacuum cleaner that can remove dust and dirt from floors and can get into the corners of your home too.

If you’ve got any questions about how to prevent indoor air pollution in your home, you can give one of our Home Comfort Consultants a call at 1-800-475-1504. We’ve been helping South Florida’s residents with their indoor air quality concerns for over 30 years.