If your home received a report card, it might be graded on its indoor air quality. How well would yours do?
If there is a lot of dust buildup in your home, a stuffy atmosphere, or you find yourself sneezing frequently, then the answer is probably not well. Indoor air pollution is common but potentially harmful to your health, especially since it is often two to five times worse than the air outdoors- which we know is already poor on its own, especially in the Pittsburgh area. Indoor air quality testing is one way to determine what may be affecting your indoor air before you take steps to improve it and to raise your home’s air quality grade.
Indoor Air Quality Testing detects for:
1. Humidity and moistureUsually cause mold and mildew to form, which contaminate the air and other surfaces. You may need a dehumidifier or interior waterproofing system, as well as a deep cleaning.
2. Airflow and filtrationCan affect heating and cooling performance, energy consumption, and efficiency. Changing your air filter every 2-3 months is crucial, as well as regular furnace and AC maintenance and tune-ups.
3. Ductwork issuesMay be a source of air pollution and heating/cooling performance problems. Duct cleaning or repair can help.
4. Carbon monoxideThe gaseous “invisible killer” linked to furnace damages and improper ventilation. Should have an annual furnace inspection, proper ventilation, and CO detector for safety.
5. Volatile Organic CompoundsPollutants that exist in many materials used to build a home, including carpeting, insulation, upholstery, pesticides, cleaning products, and automotive materials. Air cleaners can help to eliminate harmful VOCs.
In general, concentrated air cleaners are the best way to get rid of allergens, VOCs, and other airborne contaminants that contribute to indoor air pollution. Air filtration systems and air purifiers work with a home’s heating and cooling system or ductwork to capture, neutralize, and eliminate a wide range of pollutants.
So, if you want a home report card that you can be proud of, and a healthier home overall, start with an air quality test. Then you can be on your way to breathing cleaner, safer air in an even better environment for you and your family.
