Some homes are more vulnerable to certain indoor air pollutants than others. For example, you may live in a home with a high radon concentration and not even know it. It’s important to know your indoor air quality because certain pollutants are odorless, tasteless, and colorless, and yet you’re breathing them in every day and they’re putting your health, and the health of those who live with you, at risk.
In some cases, you can buy your own air quality tests and take measures to reduce the amount of air pollution in your home. In others, however, you may need a professional’s help. Our team at Ambient Edge can come to your home and perform a professional test that looks for several different pollutants all in one shot. You can, therefore, save money, and have peace of mind, by testing for a bunch of things all at once. If you’re interested in a professional air quality test, give us a call to set one up.
Types of Indoor Air Pollutants
What follows is a list of some of the more common indoor air pollutants, including those that are more dangerous than others. All of which, while not necessarily hazardous, are simply not good for you, which is why it is important to do all you can to reduce them.
Radon
Experts believe radon is the second most responsible culprit for lung cancer in the U.S., and yet many people haven’t even heard of it. Radon naturally occurs as a byproduct of uranium in the soil breaking down. If you have cracks in your foundation, or if you have a basement or crawlspace, then you are more likely to have radon in your home.
You can purchase a test to analyze your indoor air and determine how much, if any, radon is present. Like carbon monoxide, you can’t see radon, nor can you smell or taste it. The only way to know whether you have a radon problem is to test your air.
Carbon Monoxide
Like radon, carbon monoxide is a poisonous, yet odorless and tasteless gas. Many people have carbon monoxide detectors in your home. This is a good thing to have around, so if you don’t have one, it’s definitely worth it to invest in one.
Some ways to prevent carbon monoxide from entering your home include:
- Using a range hood if you cook with a gas oven or stove
- Ensuring all appliances, including your furnace, vent properly outside
- Preventing anyone from smoking tobacco products in your home (more on that later)
- Keeping fumes from cars, lawnmowers, and anything else that burns gas away from your open windows
If you have gas heat or an attached garage, then it is even more important that you install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Cigarette Smoke
Smokers may not want to hear this, but cigarette smoke is one of the most dangerous pollutants you can possibly have in your home. Cigarette smoke contains literally hundreds of poisons, which are released into the air every time someone lights one up and smokes in your home. The best way to prevent air pollution from cigarette smoke is to not smoke yourself and to not allow anyone else to smoke in your home.
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Reducing Indoor Air Pollution
In addition to preventing people from smoking in your home and installing carbon monoxide detectors to warn you of potentially dangerous CO levels, here are some additional things you can do to reduce your indoor air pollution.
- Have an HVAC professional check your system annually to ensure it is venting and running properly.
- Clean up moisture promptly and fix any leaky appliances, such as an air conditioner or water heater, to prevent mold.
- Never use a gas stove to heat your home.
Need Your Indoor Air Quality Checked? Ambient Edge Is Here for You!
If you are concerned you may have poor indoor air quality, Ambient Edge can test your indoor air for you. Not only that, but we also specialize in HVAC installation and repairs and can check your system for you. Whether you require a repair, need to install a new system, or just need us to check on your system once a year for you to ensure everything is in working order, we can help – just let us know what you need, and we’re there!
Our team of professionals is fully licensed and insured and has decades of experience working with customers just like you. In the event of an emergency, we are available 24/7. Simply fill out the contact form on our website or call us, and we’ll set you up for our next available appointment slot. No one should be breathing in dirty air, especially in their own homes. Ambient Edge is here to help – call us today!
