The Environmental Protection Agency warns that indoor air pollution is among the top health risks for Americans. The challenges households face aren’t limited to ambient air pollution and often originate in the home. Identifying those problems and correcting them in a sustainable manner is difficult. It’s much easier with an air quality specialist to help.
Air Quality Testing
The first step toward overcoming indoor air quality (IAQ) issues is scheduling an IAQ test. Through testing, an expert can identify pollutants and contaminants. Common allergens include dust, pet dander, pollen, and textile fibers. A specialist can identify mold, mildew, and other moisture issues. If you have fuel-burning equipment, carbon monoxide may be a problem. There may also be issues with radon, volatile organic compounds, ammonia, and much more.
HVAC Equipment
HVAC systems don’t generally cause IAQ issues, but they can make them worse. It’s important to schedule seasonal maintenance. You need a tune-up in the fall for your heating system. If you have a cooling system, you need a tune-up in the spring for it. Having that equipment cleaned twice a year can make a big difference in your IAQ.
Ductwork
If you have a central system, you need an expert to perform a ductwork inspection at least every couple of years. Dust accumulation in ducts occurs naturally, and most homes will need duct cleaning every several years or so. The other potential issue is air leakage, which can occur when duct seals wear out over time. Air leakage undermines energy efficiency and also provides another way for pollutants to get into the home.
Ventilation
Some pollutants in the home are unavoidable, which is why it’s so important to keep concentration levels low. If ventilation is insufficient, even small amounts of pollution can be a big deal. An expert can assess your home’s ventilation and, if necessary, explore solutions. A whole-house fan, for instance, can draw fresh air into the home independent of the HVAC system without introducing allergens.
Air Purification
An expert can help you explore air purification as well. An in-duct air purifier can remove over 99% of all particles. With activated carbon, it can absorb gases and chemicals. You can also opt for an in-duct germicidal light that neutralizes most bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
Humidity
Relative humidity (RH) is an oft-overlooked aspect of IAQ. When RH is too low or too high, it can irritate the respiratory system and even cause inflammation. Too high RH can also make a home more prone to allergens, including mold spores and dust mites. An expert can test RH and, if necessary, help you explore adding a dehumidifier and/or humidifier.
If you’d like an expert to help you assess your indoor air quality in Canton, MA, contact AirCare Environmental Services today.
