Causes of poor indoor air quality
Unfortunately, studies indicate that indoor concentrations of air pollutants are actually increasing. There are a number of reasons for this, including the chemicals used in home products, building materials and the way homes are built now (efficiently but with poor ventilation) and hotter or more polluted outdoor air[2].
Indoor air can be five times more polluted than outdoor air.[3] Key pollutants include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paints and furnishings, dust mites, mold spores, pollen, pet dander, and combustion byproducts. These pollutants can emanate from everyday activities, products, and appliances within our homes.
Let’s look at some of the major pollutants affecting our air:
1. Environmental factors outside the home can impact air quality within the home. For example, if you live in an area with high air pollution, this could affect the air quality inside your home. The smoke from nearby wildfires can also contribute to poor air quality. Wildfire smoke and other pollutants form what we call particle pollution (meaning a mixture of solid and liquid droplets suspended in air). Some particles are small enough to penetrate homes and buildings increasing indoor particle concentrations.
2. Indoor emissions within buildings from smoking cigarettes to burning solid fuels can cause build up indoors. Fireplaces, wood stoves and gas stoves can all contribute to air quality problems. The most common pollutions emitted from these sources are carbon monoxide, formaledyhde and nitrogen dioxide.Â
3. VOCs or volatile organic compounds are emitted from the furniture we buy and materials our homes are constructed from. For example, pressed wooden furniture and some cabinets and flooring may emit formaldehyde and VOCs in what is known as off-gassing. Lead and asbestos may also be present in older homes when these materials were used in paint or insulation.
4. Mold and mildew thrive in damp areas where airflow is limited, such as basements, bathrooms and laundry rooms. When not addressed, mold can cause respiratory issues and other health problems. Signs of mold in your home include a rotten smell, spots or odors in carpets, warped walls, black spots on your A/C air filter and a persistent cough or cold.
5. Cleaing products can also contribute to poor air quality. Like the furniture mentioned above, certain cleaners can release volatile organic compounds as a byproduct, which can cause headaches, allergic reactions, respiratory issues and other short-term and longterm health effects. This is especially true if you live in a home that lacks good ventilation.
6. Pet dander, dead skin flakes and hair can irritate respiratory systems. Dander contains a protein that can be an allergy and asthma trigger for many. For those who suffer from these health risks, symptoms can become much more severe, especially if the home is not well ventilated and the pets spend a lot of time inside.