Indoor Air Contaminants to Look Out For
It is a fact of life that we spend the majority of our time indoors. Especially during the hot summer months, people are drawn indoors for relief from the heat outside. Because of this, we spend a considerable amount of time breathing air in enclosed spaces and it is important to be aware of contaminants that deteriorate the air quality. Indoor air quality is heavily effected by ventilation. You can read more about ventilation and how it affects the comfort of your home here. Let’s take a look at the types of air contaminants and how they might impact your health.
Common Air Contaminants
Many air contaminants are not detectable to the naked eye or nose. Most of them would require a test to be done on a regular basis to ensure they are not present. If not, you will find out because they will affect your health and well being. Some are noticeable because they come with a specific odor that identifies them. Common air contaminants include:
- Tobacco smoke
- Perfume and body odors
- Carbon dioxide
- Dust mites
- Asbestos
- Fiberglass
- VOCs (volatile organic compounds)
- Vapors and toxic vapors
- Gases
- Molds
- Fungi
- Bacteria
- Carbon Monoxide
- Nitrogen dioxide
- Radon
- Pesticides
- Lead
- Formaldehyde
This is a general list and can include more than what is above. Most often the contaminants come from shared spaces with others, household products, appliances, nearby construction, or outdoor contaminants that leak in.
Health Risks and Symptoms Associated with Air Contaminants
We rely on the oxygen in the air to survive and if we are indoors inhaling contaminated air, then there are bound to be health risks associated with it. It is important to understand that certain contaminants pose a significantly higher risk than others. But regardless, identifying symptoms early can make a big difference when dealing with the issue. Symptoms associated with air contaminants might include:
- Dryness and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin
- Shortness of breath
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sinus congestion
- Coughing
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Sneezing
- Hypersensitivity and allergic reactions
It can be noticed when entering OR leaving a contaminated area. For example, if your office space is has a poor air quality that is full of contaminants, you may feel fatigued and congested at work. But when you get home after a long day of work, you are somehow feeling more energized and breathing has returned to normal. Pay attention to your body in different places to get an idea of how different air qualities affect you.
Paying close attention to these symptoms is important. Over time, contaminants in the air lead to serious health implications and in the most serve cases – death.
Speak to a Professional Today
Air quality is not something to mess around with. Especially in your home where you spend most of your time and your family is also at risk. At Trust Heating and Air, we can run diagnostic tests on the air in your home or business to ensure it is high quality and safe for everyone breathing it in. Our professionals understand the importance of clean healthy air and can make sure to inspect every possible cause or contaminant. By also making sure your air conditioning unit has proper ventilation, we ensure that your home will be safe and comfortable. Call or contact us today to speak with an expert who can help you!
