It’s no secret that pollution is a significant issue in many parts of the world. And while much of the focus is on outdoor air pollution, it’s important to remember that indoor air quality can be just as bad, if not worse. Many common residential pollutants come from things we use daily in our homes. Here are four of the most common ones and how to avoid them.
1- Radon
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can be very dangerous to your health. It’s one of the most common residential air pollutants, and it comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks.
Radon can seep into your home through cracks in the foundation, flooring, walls, or roof, and it’s responsible for many cases of lung cancer each year. The only way to know if you have radon in your home is to test for it, and if you do have it, you’ll need to install a radon mitigation system to remove it from the air.
2- Biological Contaminants
Biological contaminants are common air pollutants in residential areas. They can cause various health problems, including respiratory illnesses, and can be challenging to avoid. However, there are some steps you can take to minimize your exposure.
One of the most common sources of biological contaminants is air conditioning units. The warm, moist air they produce is a perfect breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms. To avoid these contaminants, keep your air conditioner clean and well-maintained. If you have any allergies or respiratory conditions, consider using a HEPA air purifier in your home. You can also consider hiring an expert to help you with quality air conditioning and heating service.
Another common source of biological contaminants is pets. While they may be your beloved furry friends, they can also track pollen, dust, and other allergens. It may be best to avoid pet ownership if you have severe allergies. Keep your pets clean and groomed to minimize exposure, and vacuum regularly.
3- Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be very dangerous. It’s produced whenever you burn anything, so it’s frequently found in homes with gas stoves, fireplaces, or furnaces.
Carbon monoxide can also come from car exhaust and can build up quickly in enclosed spaces. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, install a carbon monoxide detector in your home and ensure to ventilate areas where it might build up, such as the garage.
4- Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases from certain liquids or solids. They can come from everyday household items, such as cleaning products, paint, and aerosol.
VOCs can cause various health problems, including respiratory irritation, headaches, and nausea. To avoid them, choose products labeled “low-VOC” or “no-VOC,” and make sure to ventilate any areas where you use them.
Indoor air pollution is a severe issue, but there are things you can do to avoid it. Test your home for radon and install a mitigation system if necessary. Keep mold at bay by keeping everything clean and dry, and ventilate areas where VOCs might build up. And finally, install a carbon monoxide detector to protect your family from this deadly gas.