While outdoor air pollution is a well-known threat to respiratory health, many people do not realize that indoor air can be significantly more polluted than outside air. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air pollution levels are often 2-5 times higher than outdoor pollution levels, sometimes even 100 times higher. We spend approximately 90% of our time indoors at home, work, school, and other indoor environments. For this reason, indoor air quality significantly influences respiratory health and is a critical issue to understand.
Are HVAC Systems Impacting Air Quality?
HVAC systems play a crucial role in determining indoor air quality. Dust, dander, mold, and other particulates accumulate inside air ducts over time, acting as “allergens-to-go” quickly circulating throughout a building. According to the EPA, heating and cooling systems are among the five most significant sources of indoor air pollution in homes. Leaving dust and debris inside ventilation ducts allows contaminants to spread and re-circulate in the air we breathe daily. This has been directly linked to allergic reactions and asthma flare-ups.
Additionally, humidifiers and cooling coils that are not adequately cleaned and maintained can become breeding grounds for mold, bacteria, and other microbes, which are then distributed through ventilation systems. One study showed microbial levels in homes may be 100 times higher than outdoor levels if HVAC systems are not appropriately maintained, putting respiratory health at significant risk. Regular professional duct cleaning and system sanitization are crucial for limiting this considerable source of indoor pollution.
Other Common Indoor Air Pollutants
In addition to HVAC systems, other common indoor air pollutants that have been shown to impact respiratory health negatively include:
- Chemicals from building materials, housecleaning supplies, paints, and glues are significant contributors. Formaldehyde, used in many composite wood products, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from these sources are also significant contributors.
- Tobacco smoke and secondhand smoke. Even traces of smoke residue left behind from previous smokers increase health risks.
- Pesticides and herbicides. While these chemicals may kill pests outside, residues from indoor use can linger and cause harm.
- Pet dander and animal allergens like dust mites. Pets are a significant allergy trigger for millions of people.
- Mold and moisture issues are caused by water damage or high humidity levels. Toxins emitted as molds grow degrade the air.
- Particulate matter from burning candles, fireplaces, or cooking emissions suspended in indoor air.
- Ozone is from copiers, printers, and household ozone-emitting devices. In high amounts, ozone can damage lung tissue.
The Danger of Chronic Indoor Pollution Exposure
Poor indoor air quality tends to have chronic rather than acute health impacts because exposure occurs over long periods. Ongoing inhalation of pollutants can gradually impair lung function and adversely impact overall respiratory health. Young children, seniors, and those with pre-existing conditions tend to be most vulnerable.
Some of the illnesses and conditions linked to unsafe indoor environments include:
- Asthma symptoms and asthma attacks that may require emergency medical care. Asthma is a leading cause of school absenteeism.
- Worsening of existing lung diseases like COPD or chronic bronchitis caused by irritating particles and gases.
- Increased risk of lower respiratory infections from microbial contaminants and particles coating the lungs.
- Coughs, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath due to irritated airways.
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation from chemicals and allergens.
- Impaired lung development in children who inhale pollutants as their lungs mature.
- Long-term risks of lung cancer from exposure to carcinogens in some indoor environments.
Therefore, maintaining superior indoor air quality contributes significantly to overall health, wellness, and quality of life. But how can homes and buildings promote respiratory-friendly air?
Solutions for Improving Indoor Air
With so many potential sources of indoor pollution, achieving ideal air takes an integrated approach:
- Professional heating and ventilation system cleaning removes built-up particulates from ducts and components. Sanitizing kills microbes.
- Updated ventilation brings fresh outdoor air and filters/purifies re-circulated indoor air. Open windows when possible.
- Careful material selection avoids problem products containing formaldehyde, VOCs, and other irritating gases.
- Integrated pest management handles pests non-chemically or uses least-toxic options sparingly.
- Proper moisture control through drainage, ventilation, dehumidification, and quick drying of wet areas prevents mold growth.
- No-scent cleaning products, candles, or air fresheners reduce unnecessary chemical exposures.
- HEPA vacuuming helps regularly remove excess dust, dander, and particulates from living spaces.
- Duct insulation wraps systems to improve efficiency while sealing in contaminants.
For more information about our services and how we can help you improve your indoor air quality, visit our website at https://pnwfreshair.com/. Breathe easier with PNW Fresh Air!