Indoor air pollution isn’t something you likely think about every day. That’s because you’re probably like most homeowners and more focused on the smog index outdoors. The reality is that indoor air pollution is even more important to watch out for because it happens within the closed environment of your home, increasing your exposure levels.
While most people are aware of the dangers of radon, asbestos insulation and lead paint, the more common causes of indoor air pollution go unnoticed. In April 2015, The ACHR News revealed the results of a survey that showed most people are unaware of the things they can do to reduce the amount of air pollution within their homes.
The study also showed that about half of homeowners use scented candles to mask odors, and 35 percent use gas stoves that aren’t properly ventilated. Twenty-four percent acknowledged using their fireplaces regularly. These unseen dangers went largely unnoticed and unconsidered in the daily habits of survey participants.
Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to clean the air within your home and improve indoor air quality. Changes in behavior, like not using chemical cleaning agents, foregoing the use of scented candles, and even changing the air filters in the HVAC system regularly will considerably reduce your exposure to dangerous particulates. Installing carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, having the ducts cleaned every few years, and making sure the home is properly ventilated are highly advisable steps every homeowner should take.
Another important step is to check the fabrics and other building materials within your home. Many contain carcinogens such as formaldehyde (carpets/furniture), benzene (plastics, lubricants), or any number of volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) that seep into the air over time.
For more information about indoor air pollution and what you can do about it, contact Mowery Heating and Cooling. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and tell you how we can help with all your HVAC needs.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Brownsburg, Indiana and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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