What is Indoor Air Quality?

When we refer to indoor air quality, we primarily refer to the air inside our homes and workspaces that affect our health, safety, and home comfort. However, it also applies to any enclosed, close-quarters spaces where we spend much time, such as churches, schools, and libraries. Our homes and offices require fresh air to be filtered into them and circulated throughout our spaces. If your heater or air conditioner experiences a buildup of debris or excessive chemicals in the atmosphere, they become less energy efficient. Clogged and inefficient systems result in poor air quality.

 

Indoor air quality is impacted most often by:

 

• Changing temperatures

• High humidity

• Inadequate ventilation

• Chemical or biological contaminants     

Inadequate ventilation occurs when too much unfiltered outdoor air enters the home. Outdoor air enters through standard home vents such as those in the kitchen or bathroom. It seeps through cracks and seals around windows and doors and naturally enters through open windows or doors. Indoor and outdoor air at different temperatures results in moisture and humidity. Excessive outdoor air also allows allergens to enter and circulate through the home unfiltered.  Contaminants or pollutants are things we bring into our homes that release health-compromising chemicals.

 

These include:

• Gases or toxins released from appliances such as water heaters, fireplaces, and stoves

• Pet dander

• Dust mites

• Tobacco smoke

• Cleaning products

• Craft supplies

• New furniture or carpet chemicals

 

Poor air quality directly impacts our overall health. Initially, this impact could go unnoticed with minor shortness of breath, sinus pressure, or headaches. However, decreasing air quality and long-term exposure can lead to more extensive illnesses or conditions, such as:

• Watery, itchy eyes

• Throat irritations

• Fatigue

• Respiratory symptoms (asthma, coughing, bronchitis)

• Frequent colds

• Nausea

 

Long-term effects of poor air quality and compromised health can become life-threatening. Illnesses such as heart disease and cancer can result from long-term exposure. It is best to check your air quality regularly if you believe there is a problem with your home comfort. Let ALPINE PRO CONTRACTORS assess your air quality and identify options for improvement.