Indoor Air Quality
Improve Your Indoor Air Quality - Creating a Healthier Home Environment for Your Family
Unfortunately, indoor air is far more polluted than outdoor air. According to the EPA, indoor air contains two to five times —and on occasion, as much as 100 times – more contaminants than outdoor air.
The air we breathe in our homes and offices contains pollutants (such as chemicals, gases, and living organisms like mold and pests) that can cause health problems.
Common Household Pollutants
If you choose to replace your HVAC system, full installation typically takes six to eight hours; if ductwork replacement is required, the process may take a bit longer. If needed, multiple technicians will be provided to ensure installation is complete within a reasonable time frame.
Radon
Radon is a radioactive gas that is formed in the soil. Radon can enter buildings through cracks and openings in floors and walls that are in contact with the ground. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer in general.
Secondhand Smoke
Secondhand smoke is a result of burning tobacco products. Secondhand smoke can cause cancer and serious respiratory illnesses. Children are especially vulnerable to secondhand smoke; it can cause or worsen asthma symptoms and is linked to an increased risk of ear infections and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Combustion Pollutants
Combustion Pollutants are gases or particles that come from burning materials. The major source of combustion pollutants in homes is improperly vented or unvented fuel-burning appliances (such as space heaters, wood stoves, gas stoves, water heaters, dryers, and fireplaces). The type and amount of pollutants produced depend on the type of appliance, how well it’s installed, maintained, and vented, and the kind of fuel it uses.
Common Combustion Pollution Includes:
Carbon monoxide (CO)
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that interferes with the delivery of oxygen throughout the body. Carbon monoxide can cause headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and even death.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of respiratory infection.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals found in paints and lacquers, paint strippers, cleaning supplies, varnishes, and waxes, pesticides; building materials and furnishings, office equipment, moth repellents, air fresheners, and dry-cleaned clothing. VOCs evaporate into the air when these products are used and, sometimes, when they are stored. VOCs can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and/or cause headaches, nausea, and damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Some of them can also cause cancer.
Molds
Molds are living things that produce spores. These spores float in the air, land on damp surfaces, and grow. Inhaling or touching molds can cause sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rashes. Molds can also trigger asthma attacks.
