Common Indoor Air Pollutants: Part 2

Welcome back to part two of our indoor air pollutants roundup! In our previous installation, we covered asbestos, bacteria and viruses, carbon monoxide, cleaning supplies, cockroaches, and dust mites. Read on to see which home air quality dangers we’d like to warn you about today.

Formaldehyde – The most interesting thing about this pollutant is that it’s actually naturally occurring and even produced by our own bodies. However, in high unfiltered concentrations, this colorless gas can cause irritation of the eyes and throat, and has even been linked to cancer. Formaldehyde is a common byproduct of household materials and cleaning products. Furniture, adhesives, paint, insulation, and even cosmetic products and medicines can all give off this gas.

Lead – Similar to asbestos, which we mentioned in part one of this series, lead is commonly found in the piping and paint of older homes. If lead-based paint is left untouched, it may be safe, but as soon as it starts to chip and peel the air becomes contaminated. Exposure to lead can cause severe damage to the bones, liver, kidneys and nervous system.

Mold – Bathrooms, basements and the inside of HVAC air ducts are some of the most common places that mold will appear in the home. While mold might seem to be confined, its spores can become airborne, allowing it to enter the lungs. Excessive mold from damp, unventilated conditions can cause asthma, allergic reactions and chronic illness.

Pet Dander – Fido and fluffy are great companions, but their dander can get out of control. If you’ve got pets, chances are your home is also filled with pet dander. Without clean air filters and a good ventilation system, these allergens can cause discomfort and asthma.

Radon – Just like carbon monoxide, this sneaky gas is colorless, odorless and utterly undetectable. It also happens to cause cancer. Radon is a natural product of uranium, which breaks down and releases radioactive byproducts into the air. While there are always small amounts of radon present, without properly installed detectors and filtration systems, large quantities of this gas have caused about 21,000 per year in the U.S.

Secondhand Smoke – Last but not least — cigarettes. While it’s highly suggested that you don’t smoke at all, if you absolutely must, please do so outside. Ventilation is so important for the safety of your family. In fact, “secondhand smoke causes approximately 7,330 deaths from lung cancer and 33,950 deaths from heart disease each year.”

How’s your home’s indoor air quality? Allow the team at Tyler Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration LLC to provide a full in-home consultation so we can suggest ways to improve the air you breathe day-to-day. Call 203-378-4700 for more information.