It is easy to overlook the quality of air in your home if it is not causing any noticeable harm. A lot of times we do not associate our overall wellness with indoor air quality. In some instances, the air quality in your home can make a drastic difference in how we feel on a day to day basis. If you find that you are generally feeling fatigued, experiencing headaches, or getting sick frequently, it may be beneficial to get your indoor air quality tested. Things like mold, allergens, chemicals, and bacteria can be lingering and affecting your health and home. We may think that avoiding some of the more obvious sources of air pollutants should keep our homes safe from contamination, but there are many ways to decrease your indoor air quality without even realizing it. Here are some examples of things that may be affecting the air in your home or business.
Candles And Air Fresheners
Candles and air fresheners are wonderful at making our spaces smell great and feel refreshed, but did you know that they can also be affecting your indoor air quality? Candles produce soot and smoke when they are burned, and oftentimes are made with waxes and scents that aren’t great for the environment when they are burned. The same can be said for spray or melt type air fresheners.
Moisture
High humidity can host a collection of harmful organisms- such as mold, bacteria, allergens, and germs. It is best to keep your humidity levels between thirty and fifty percent. Mitigating excess water by using your exhaust fans, improving circulation, and tending to any spills or leaks as they appear can be a big help when it comes to moisture maintenance.
Heating and Cooling Sources
Wood and gas stoves can pollute your air indoors with the remnants they leave behind after burning. It is also possible for conventional heat and cooling units to produce pollutants if they are not cleaned and maintained on a regular basis.
Building Materials
Even the resources that were used to build your property can negatively affect your air quality. Everything from paint to insulation can potentially be giving off chemicals that can cause your home or business to have poor air quality.
Biological Air Pollutants
Things like dust, skin cells, and dander can have a negative affect on your air quality. They may not seem like a big deal but these tiny particles can harbor bacteria, germs, and even pests that can cause your air quality to be poor and affect your health.
Furniture and Other Personal Belongings
Furniture and other belongings actually let off gasses that can contain chemicals (also known as “off-gassing”) such as formaldehyde, ethylene glycol, and benzene.
Cleaning and Beauty Products
Cleaning and beauty products can also be the culprits behind poor air quality. Always do your research and opt for natural alternatives when possible to avoid the chemicals that would be used to clean your home and sit on your skin and hair.
These days, it is impossible to avoid everything that can cause damage to your immediate environment with air pollution. Luckily there are companies like Insight Environmental that can test your indoor air quality and give you insight on how to improve it. Take control of your health and wellbeing and contact Insight Environmental to schedule an indoor air quality test today.
