Air Pollution

Air poluution is an issue that concerns everyone,but we tend to think it only exists outside.

Up to 90% of our time is spent indoors and much of that time is spent at home.  Polluted air in your home can negatively affect your family's health.

EPA studies of human exposure to air pollutants indicate that indoor air levels of many pollutants may be 2-5 times and occasionally more than 100 times, higher than outdoor levels.

These levels of indoor air pollutants are of particular concern because it is estimated that most people spend as much as 90% of their time indoors.  Unlike outdoor air, indoor air is recycled again and again. This causes it to trap and build up pollutants. Common pollutants include dust, mold and spores, pollen, pet dander and smoke.

Knowing what causes poor indoor air quality and how to detect the problem areas is the first step to cleaner air and a healthier living environment. Some illnesses related to poor indoor air quality may include headaches, nose bleed, fatigue, bronchitis, eye irritation, sinus irritation, dizziness, and symptoms of asthma.

Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor air pollution is comprised of primarily three sources:

Airborne Particles
Even though they’re not usually visible with the naked eye, airborne contaminants like dust, pollen, dirt, pet dander, insulation and carpet fibers, are usually the largest of the pollutants. These larger airborne particles can cause hay fever and aggravate many different symptoms of asthma.

Biological Contaminants
These contaminants typically thrive in warm humid environments. Very small, they can get past the bodies natural filtration systems and get into the lungs. Found in places like bedding, basements and bathrooms, biological contaminants include mold spores, dust mites, viruses, fungi, bacteria, yeasts and algae.

Odors and Gases
These contaminants can be caused by many sources. Fireplaces, gas ovens, space heaters, water heaters, carpets, garages, pets, cleaning products, furniture, paint, perfumes, pesticides and tobacco smoke are all potential sources. More than a nuisance, some of these contaminants can be dangerous or even deadly. One of the more dangerous of these contaminants is carbon monoxide which can be caused by back drafting heating appliances, poorly maintained fossil fuel heating systems, faulty chimneys, gas cooking appliances, cigarette smoking and idling cars in an attached garage.