We all know the adage “You Are What You Eat”.  The air we breathe can affect our health just as much as food does. Because many of us spend a great deal of time indoors, we should be more mindful of “Indoor Air Quality”. The following is a list of things in our home’s environment that can affect indoor air quality. 

Lack of Fresh “Outdoor” Air 

Keeping the windows closed at all the times allows bad indoor air to accumulate. This bad air may include viruses, bacteria, dust mites, chemical vapors and odors that can sometimes accumulate from household products such as air deodorizers etc.                                                                             

Water Damage and Mold Growth 

Water damage from leaks and floods is a common problem. And so is mold growth. When water damage affects organic building materials (such as sheetrock, wood or painted surfaces), mold growth may occur. Exposure to mold and other mold structures can cause allergies, and in some instances, more serious health problems like asthma.  

HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems)  

Old and poorly maintained air conditioning units often add pollutants to indoor air. Mold growth inside these units can add mold spores to the air.  Deteriorating fiberglass insulation can add fiberglass fibers to the air.  These problems are more pronounced in air handlers, fan-coil units and air duct. 

Carbon Monoxide 

Carbon monoxide is an odorless & colorless poisonous gas that is released due to incomplete combustion of carbon. Carbon monoxide leaks can occur in stoves and gas-fired furnaces. Make sure you have a functional “carbon monoxide detector” installed in your home.

Roaches and Dust Mites 

Dust mites are present in most of our homes, and many of us may have roach problems. Exposure to dust mite and roach allergens can cause asthma. 
 
 
Air Pollutants from Renovation /Construction Work 

Renovation work in a building or repointing work releases a great deal of dust, and this dust may affect your air quality. This dust may include contaminants such as crystalline silica, lead, asbestos and/or mold. 

Chemical Vapors 

Many household products (cleaning products, pesticides, paint, etc.) contain harmful chemicals. You can be exposed to potentially harmful chemical vapors if you use these products without adequate ventilation. In new constructions/renovations, chemical vapors may be released from newly applied paint, adhesives and finishes. 
 
You can improve “Indoor Air Quality” by simply opening your windows. This allows fresh outdoor air to dilute any airborne contaminants in the indoor air. You should keep a window or two open even if it’s just a crack. During the winter, opening the windows for a minute even a couple of times a day will go a long way in improving indoor air quality.  

If you or your families are having health problems, see your doctor. If you think your health problems may be related to an indoor air quality problem, consider contacting an indoor environmental consultant for advice or an inspection of your home.     


EnviroBliss, LLC
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