Indoor Air 101: Common Pollutants and How to Manage Them
Indoor comfort isn’t just measured by how well your HVAC system is running. Another factor, which is indoor air quality, is also a major aspect of home comfort. As such, it’s in the best interest of homeowners to ensure that their indoor air quality is optimal.
In this article, residential and commercial HVAC service contractor Comfort Zone of North Florida lists down the most common sources of indoor air pollution and how to manage, reduce, or even completely eliminate these pollutants.
Combustion Products
For homes that use fireplaces, gas stoves, unvented kerosene or gas heaters, or wood stoves, the combustion byproducts include carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, radon, and other potentially harmful particulates. If left unregulated, these products can aggravate existing respiratory issues.
Building Materials
Pressed wood products that use adhesives containing urea-formaldehyde resins, such as particleboards, plywood panels, and fiberboards, are commonly used indoors. The materials themselves pose no health risks, but formaldehyde can volatilize and can cause watery eyes and nausea.
Asbestos
If you live in an older home, there’s a high chance that your residential property was built using asbestos-containing construction materials such as floor tiles, textured paints, and ceiling tiles. Asbestos is generally harmless unless disturbed by cutting, sanding, and other renovation activities, which is why it’s a good idea to warn your remodeling or HVAC contractor before they perform any work around your home.
Biological Agents
Households with indoor pets or plants are exposed to animal dander and pollen. You yourself can also produce biological agents such as bacteria, saliva, and viruses. Other pollutants such as mold and mildew from rotting furniture and damp parts of the home should also be managed. Look out for allergic reactions and shortness of breath, which can be triggered by these pollutants.
You can count on Comfort Zone of North Florida to help you maintain a healthy indoor air quality. We are one of the most trusted residential and commercial air conditioning service companies around. Call us today at (904) 406-0070 for a free estimate. We serve Jacksonville, FL.