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Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is as important as outdoor air quality. Many of the pollutants that affect Americans today are found inside their homes and offices. Most homes have more than one source of pollutants that can make family members sick. There are steps you can take to reduce the risks of indoor pollutants in your home.

Sources of Pollution in the Home

• Building materials
• Home furnishings such as furniture made of compressed wood, carpets and drapes
• Combustion sources such as oil, gas, kerosene or wood
• Cleaning products and personal care items
• Hobby products such as paints, varnishes, etc.
• Heating and cooling systems and humidifiers
• Tobacco smoke
• Outside sources that come into the house such as radon, pesticides and outdoor air pollution

Ventilation in the Home

Good ventilation brings in fresh air and decreases the rate at which fresh air from the outside replaces stale indoor air is called the air exchange rate which can happen in several ways:

• Natural ventilation with air coming through open doors and windows
• Infiltration with air coming through joints, around windows and doors, up from the basement or down from the attic
• Mechanical ventilation with air circulating with fans, air handling systems, etc.

Even if your home has a good air exchange rate, pollutants are sometimes held in by carpets, curtains and other surfaces.

Recognizing Pollutions in Indoor Air

Pollutions in indoor air can cause health problems. If you notice symptoms after moving to a new home or after remodeling your home or treating it with pesticides, you should contact both your doctor and your health department. Many long-term illnesses, such as respiratory problems and cancer can occur from exposure to indoor pollutions. Ask these questions about the air in your home:

• Does the air in your home seem stuffy or smell funny?
• Do you see signs of moisture condensation on walls or windows?
• Can you see signs of water leakage - have objects such as books or shoes become moldy?
• Have you checked the filters and ducts in your heating and cooling systems lately?
• Have you checked for damaged chimneys or flues?