Indoor air pollution can result from sources that you can see, such as cigarette smoke or spray cleaner emissions. Your air can also be polluted by malfunctioning wood stoves or fireplaces. House dust, along with dust mite colonies, can cause respiratory difficulties. Finally, unseen pollutants, such as gases from carpets and furniture, can affect your health.
Smoking
If you live or work with a smoker, you're also exposed to the cigarette smoke's carcinogens and toxic chemicals. In fact, the American Cancer Society, or ACS, emphasizes that secondhand smoke is also a carcinogen. The smoke causes other health issues such as asthma complications and circulatory problems.
Despite efforts to segregate indoor smokers and non-smokers, and add extra ventilation, the ACS notes that non-smokers are still exposed to secondhand smoke. Complete elimination of indoor smoking is the only reliable solution.
Volatile Organic Compounds
Your home's air can be compromised by fumes from volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. You'll find VOCs in paint strippers, spray cleaners and aerosol sprays. The EPA recommends that you use these products outside if possible, or use them only in well-ventilated areas. If you use a VOC product infrequently, buy a small amount and use up the product. This eliminates the risk of fumes from the unused portion.
Combustion Equipment
If you heat your home with a wood stove or furnace, or operate a wood fireplace, a leaking or improperly installed exhaust system can cause indoor air pollution. The EPA recommends that you have wood stove and fireplace flues cleaned prior to the heating season, and make sure that equipment is vented to the outside. Finally, install carbon monoxide detectors to guard against contamination you can't smell.
Air Filtration
If you have wall or ceiling air filters, ensure that filters are regularly changed. Blue Point Environmental, a consulting firm, notes that old filters that harbor dust and chemical residue are a source of indoor air pollution.
Blue Point Environmental points to an EPA document that discusses air filtration products. Whole-house filters are incorporated into the home's ventilation system, while portable air filters are designed to filter air in a single room. Filtration can be accomplished by mechanical or electronic methods.
Asbestos
Asbestos is incorporated into many household products, and also into some ceiling and floor tiles. Generally, the asbestos is not a risk unless it is disturbed. If you plan to remodel a floor or ceiling containing asbestos, or an object that includes asbestos has been cut or damaged, call an asbestos removal contractor. Don't risk the transmission of the asbestos into the air by removing the object yourself.
Moisture Buildup
Moisture buildup can cause indoor air pollution as well. Blue Point Environmental states that leaking gutters, roofs or basements can lead to a buildup of moisture in your home. Keep your gutters and roofs cleaned of leaves and other debris, and make sure that your foundation is not compromised by leaks or standing water.
Molds
Molds grow with an uninterrupted source of moisture. To discourage mold, the EPA recommends that you clean up leaks and seepage as soon as possible. Wipe off hard, non-porous surfaces with water and detergent. Because mold thrives on surfaces such as carpet and ceiling tiles, you may have to discard those mold-infested materials. If you are not confident about your ability to remove the mold safely, consult a mold remediation company.
References
- Environmental Protection Agency: Sources of indoor air pollution
- American Cancer Society: Indoor air pollution from secondhand smoke
- Environmental Protection Agency: Indoor air pollution from volatile organic compounds
- Environmental Protection Agency: Indoor air pollution from combustion equipment
- Blue Point Environmental: Proper air filtration
