5 Common Indoor Air Pollutants
Whether it’s in the office, school, home, or dining halls, people use 90% of their time indoors. While we frequently discuss the amount of pollution in the atmosphere, we rarely think about the air quality we inhale indoors. According to studies, indoor air pollution is shown to have damaging impacts on our health and is blamed for 4.3 million deaths yearly.
So what are the common indoor air pollutants you should look out for in your house? Let’s find out as we get going.
Indoor Air Pollutants to Look Out for
We often think about smog, car emissions, and industry fumes at the thought of air pollution, but we often forget the pollution that occurs indoors. According to many professionals, indoor air pollution is even more dangerous compared to outdoor. Indoor air pollution is caused by various factors, and we have detailed five below to help you be proactive.
1. Excess moisture
Although the least acknowledged indoor contaminant, moisture is among the most dangerous. It can cause structural issues in your house and even impact your health. Basement leakages and water damage can increase a home’s moisture, so it is essential to fix these problems with the help of PuroClean restoration professionals.
If there is still excess moisture in your home despite addressing the water damage problems early on, use a dehumidifier to improve ventilation and regulate moisture.
2. Radon
Radon is naturally generated in the soil, a radioactive gas that enters a home from the ground. It’s also the second leading cause of lung conditions in the US. There are excellent and inexpensive ways to regulate radon concentrations, which involve connecting a small fan to a PVC pipe system to vent the radon-rich air into the atmosphere and prevent it from entering a home.
3. Mold
Mold is among the major indoor air pollutants that can cause various health problems, including allergies, asthma, lung issues, and other respiratory infections. Mold loves humid environments and damp areas and can be found around the house, like the basement, floorings, ceilings, and walls.
For individuals with weak immune systems and pre-existing conditions like asthma and allergic reactions, mold exposure can exacerbate diseases and severe respiratory infections. So if you discover molds growing in numerous areas of your house, hire professionals specializing in water damage restoration in Midlothian, VA, to attend to the situation and prevent health risks.
4. Biological pollutants
Biological pollutants like bacteria, viruses, animal dander, mildew, mold, dust mites, and other contaminants can infest a home from outdoor areas. Sometimes these contaminants are caused by excess moisture and damp environments. So check if you have leaks or unresolved water damage at home and have it fixed by restoration contractors. You may click here to see their restoration services.
If indoor pollutants continue lingering around your house, use exhaust fans and vacuum regularly to whisk off these contaminants.
5. Asbestos
Asbestos is among the leading culprits of indoor pollution. It’s generally found in materials used in the automotive industry and home construction. Asbestos is mainly found in coatings, paints, floor tiles, construction materials, and ceilings. Since newer products and advances in construction materials don’t have asbestos, it’s usually found in homes constructed many years ago. Additionally, asbestos is banned in many countries, including the United States.
