Keeping your home clean and free of pollutants is a task that requires regular maintenance and care. Your HVAC system should help reduce a lot of contaminants when it’s serviced properly, but many dangers remain in the air and can’t be removed by changing your air filter.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are one of those pollutants that settle in your ducts and are difficult to remove without professional service. They are released when you use cleaners, aerosols, and other chemicals inside your home. Getting your HVAC system in Nevada, inspected and serviced can help fix the problem, as well as getting your ducts cleaned on a regular basis.
How do VOCs Get in My Home?
The Environmental Protection Agency describes VOCs as gases that are released from organic chemicals used in products such as cleaners, disinfectants, and air fresheners. When you clean your home using solvents and aerosol substances, you release these gases into the air in your home.
Products that release VOCs can be actively used in cleaning your house or stored in your garage or attic. Here is a short list of common items that can produce VOCs:
- Air freshening sprays
- Carpets and other flooring materials
- Cleaning products
- Construction caulk and adhesives
- Dry-cleaned clothes
- Furniture
- Gasoline, oil, and other small engine chemicals
- Hobby supplies
- Paints, stains, and varnishes
- Smoke from wood-burning fireplaces or cigarettes
Because most modern homes are built to prevent air flowing in or out for energy savings, this means these chemicals are trapped. In fact, the levels of VOCs inside your house can be as much as ten times higher compared to the outdoor air. Simply opening the windows occasionally or running your HVAC continuously won’t do much to remove VOCs. You need experts to clean your ducts and service your equipment.
Volatile Organic Compounds Can Affect Your Family’s Health
These contaminants can substantially decrease the air quality inside your home, exposing you and your family to the risk of developing many illnesses. Victims often complain of symptoms such as:
- Irritation of the lungs, nose, and throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Eye irritation
- Headaches
- Loss of coordination and dizziness
- Nausea
- Liver, kidney, and nervous system damage
In extreme cases of long-term heavy exposure, these chemicals can cause cancer in animals and humans. For example, benzene is a VOC that is found in cigarette and pipe smoke, stored fuels, and paint. Extended use of these products has been linked to leukemia.
Commercial Properties Are Also at Risk from VOCs
Even though most commercial properties have larger and more powerful HVAC systems, this doesn’t mean their employees and customers are immune to VOC exposure. In fact, they may have higher levels because they typically use larger quantities of stronger cleaning and disinfecting products. They also tend to use or store gallons of fuel or solvents for longer periods.
If your business, store, or facility meets these criteria, it’s time to get your commercial air cleaning system evaluated. At Ambient Edge, we provide inspection, upgrade, repair, and installation services for commercial property customers.
Steps You Can Take to Reduce Your Exposure to VOCs
Along with having your system and ducts regularly cleaned and maintained as part of our VIP Club, you can take many common-sense steps at home to reduce your exposure to VOCs. These steps include:
- Open windows and turn on fans to increase ventilation when using products containing VOCs.
- Read label directions and follow them precisely.
- Avoid storing opened paint or fuel containers inside your home or retail facility.
- Use alternate methods for pest control to reduce your need for pesticides.
- Buy products containing VOCs in small quantities.
- Dispose of substances you don’t use often or plan to use in the near future.
- Keep VOC-emitting substances out of the reach of children and pets.
- Contact us for a visit to evaluate your home or business.
Schedule an Inspection for Your Home or Business Today
If you suspect you are being exposed to VOCs in your home or business, begin by looking around for unused chemicals, cleaners, paints, and other substances. Then, contact Ambient Edge to schedule a visit. We will thoroughly inspect your property and identify any areas of concern.
We follow up with our expert recommendations for repairing, upgrading, or replacing your HVAC system. We also determine if your ducts need cleaning or repair. We can provide a quote for our work to you and answer any questions you have before we begin. We don’t believe in “surprise fees” and want to make sure you feel comfortable and confident in choosing us.
We offer competitive prices, highly trained technicians, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not happy with the work, we will make it right. We are available 24/7 for emergencies, and our team provides care for your home across Arizona and Nevada. No matter where or when you need us, we are there for you.
Learn More About Removing VOCs and Other Pollutants from Your Air with Ambient Edge
At Ambient Edge, we not only provide exceptional service, but we also work to educate our clients so they understand the importance of staying vigilant for airborne hazards. Our technicians take the time to explain their findings after an inspection and describe why they are making their service, repair, or replacement recommendations. You don’t have to worry about getting pushed into making a choice if you’re not sure.
Count on us for fast, friendly, quality services at affordable prices. We focus on building a strong relationship with our clients so they trust us when we tell them it’s time for a specific action. We also offer financing options to help you get the comfort and air quality you need without worrying about how to pay.
Don’t let your family or customers suffer from exposure to substances like VOCs, dust, carbon monoxide, or unpleasant odors and chemicals. Reach out to the professionals at Ambient Edge by giving us a call or booking a visit online to start cleaning up the air in your home or business today.