IAQ, or indoor air quality, is important to our general health. Many Havertown, Pennsylvanians might not be aware of the dangers that could be present in their own houses, though. Numerous health difficulties, such as allergies, respiratory disorders, and even chronic diseases, can be brought on by poor air quality in home. In this post, we’ll look at five common causes of indoor air pollution and talk about how to fix the problem.
5 Causes of Indoor air pollution
1. Inadequate Ventilation:
Lack of ventilation is one of the main causes of poor IAQ. Homes that have been securely sealed to increase energy efficiency may contain contaminants. Without enough ventilation, common indoor air pollutants including dust, allergies, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning agents and construction materials build up.
Make sure your home has adequate ventilation, such as windows that can be opened, or think about employing a mechanical ventilation system to switch out stale inside air for fresh outdoor air to help alleviate this problem.
2. Mold and Moisture:
Mold can grow in damp, humid surroundings, which is a primary factor in poor indoor air quality. Havertown’s climate, with its warm summers and high humidity levels, can create conditions favorable for mold growth.
Leaks, poor insulation, or water damage can lead to excessive moisture, promoting mold growth and releasing airborne spores. Regularly inspect your home for signs of leaks or water intrusion, address them promptly with professional services, and maintain optimal indoor humidity levels to prevent mold growth.
3. Household Cleaning Products:
Although cleaning products are intended to enhance cleanliness, they often release harmful chemicals that contribute to poor IAQ. Many common cleaning agents contain VOCs, which can cause eye and respiratory irritation.
Consider opting for environmentally friendly and low-VOC cleaning products, or even making your own using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.
4. Smoking:
Smoking indoors is a significant cause of degraded home air quality. More than 7,000 compounds, including more than 70 recognized carcinogens, are present in secondhand smoking.
The harmful effects of smoking can linger in indoor air for extended periods, impacting the health of both smokers and non-smokers. It is essential to create a smoke-free environment within your home to protect your family’s health and improve IAQ.
5. Poorly Maintained HVAC Systems:
HVAC systems play a vital role in maintaining good IAQ. However, when these systems are not properly maintained, they can become a breeding ground for pollutants. Dust, allergens. Microbial growth can accumulate in air ducts and filters, circulating throughout your home whenever the HVAC system operates.
Regular maintenance with the help of a HVAC company in Havertown, including professional inspections, filter changes, and duct cleanings, is crucial to keep your HVAC system operating efficiently and to improve IAQ.
Improving Indoor Air Quality:
To improve indoor air quality in your Havertown home, consider the following steps:
- Regularly clean and vacuum your home to remove dust, allergens, and pollutants.
- Use indoor air purifiers with HEPA filters to trap airborne particles.
- Keep humidity levels in check, aiming for around 30-50% to discourage mold growth.
- Avoid smoking indoors and create designated smoking areas outdoors.
- Increase ventilation by opening windows when weather permits or using mechanical ventilation systems.
- Choose low-VOC cleaning products and limit the use of chemical-based air fresheners.
- Schedule routine maintenance for your HVAC system, including filter changes and professional inspections.
Improve your indoor air quality by scheduling regular tune-ups and maintenance with Boyle Energy in Havertown and West Grove.
When it comes to HVAC installation, services, tune-ups, and oil and propane delivery in Philadelphia, look no further than Boyle Energy. Since 1937, we have been serving the Philadelphia area with top-notch HVAC solutions. With our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, we help you maintain a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.
Contact us now or give us a call at 610-347-5197 to schedule your next HVAC check-up or maintenance with our expert team. We are available 24/7 in your service.
(President, Boyle Energy)
Boyle Energy is still that same family owned business serving Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs which prides itself on catering to the customer interest above all others.
