Do we actually know what we are breathing when we are at home? Our indoor air quality is important and maybe the cause of certain respiratory concerns, allergies, or other sinus problems.
We may be breathing in toxins and not even know it. There are outdoor pollutants that can get inside, as well. But the quality of indoor air is affected by many household products and items we have and use every day.
Common Causes of Indoor Air Pollution
While many items and products in the home can have toxins, some have higher levels than others.
Smoke
Many people still smoke inside the house. There are many compounds in tobacco that are not only toxic but can cause cancer. This affects everyone in the home, not just the person smoking.
If people still smoke, you must move them outside. Smoking in the home where there are people with young children or people with respiratory problems is particularly susceptible.
Cleaners and Household Products
Many cleaners we use, like spray cleaners, degreasers, disinfectants, and other products can contain harsh chemicals. Other products like paint, varnish, waxes, bleach, and glue that we may use every day can be making us sick.
Always use paints, glues, and other hobby products near open windows or well-ventilated rooms. Read labels on cleaners very carefully and follow the instructions for use and disposal.
Pesticides
Pesticides, insecticides, and other chemicals used indoors for rodents or bugs like ants or cockroaches can be very toxic. In fact, many of them can be more harmful to the person using it than to the insect it is meant for.
As these are meant to kill pests, they are highly toxic to people. Keep these well out of reach of children and use them according to instructions. Some pesticides can also be tracked in the home from outside.
Hiring a professional to take care of the problem might be a better option. There are certain natural methods of ridding yourself of some pests, so check out alternatives to some of these products.
Asbestos
While asbestos has been banned, many older homes may still have it. It was a fiber used for insulation for walls pipes, furnaces, and even textured paints. Concentrations of asbestos can be airborne from cutting, sanding, and other remodeling actions.
If you suspect there is asbestos in your home, as long as it is not damaged, it is fine. If you do want it removed, don’t do it yourself. Get professionals to take it out and dispose of it.
Gas and Wood
Using gas and wood for cooking and heating can also add pollution and particles in the air. The major pollutants released are carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and other particles.
Be sure these are vented with their fumes directed outside. Chimneys can become clogged or blocked, and these particles and fumes can be sent right back into the home.
Lead
Lead is another substance that is banned in many products but it still makes its way into the home. Drinking water, old leaded paint, dishes, contaminated soil, and dust.
Call The Professionals
Many of these fumes and toxins can cause headaches, dizziness, respiratory issues and even worse. If you think you might be getting sick from bad air quality in your home, you should call for an inspection.
Contact Beebe Heating and Air Conditioning for a full line of air cleaning and purifying products. We are proud to consistently offer superior HVAC installations for heating and AC repair in the area, providing services to homeowners and business owners alike.