What are the Most Common Indoor Air Pollutants?

With the current pandemic, and people spending even more time indoors, it has never been more important to make conscious decisions about air pollutants and air conditioning repair in San Jose, CA. Here are some of the most common indoor air pollutants to watch out for:

1. Carbon Monoxide

This invisible and odorless gas often stems from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. It can come from kerosene heaters, leaky furnaces, gas stoves, vehicle exhaust, or other gasoline-powered equipment. It is highly toxic. Some health effects at low concentrations could include fatigue, chest pain, impaired vision, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and reduce brain function. At higher concentrations, it is dangerous enough to kill you before you are aware it is in your home. To reduce carbon monoxide in the home you should use exhaust fans, check gas appliances to make sure they are properly adjusted, and invest in a carbon monoxide detector.

2. Secondhand Smoke

Secondhand smoke or environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is the smoke given off by burning tobacco products as well as the exhaled smoke from smokers. Research shows there is no risk-free level of exposure and there are numerous health effects caused by ETS for smokers and nonsmokers alike. It causes asthma, heart disease, lung cancer, and other serious health problems. The only way to eliminate ETS is by prohibiting smoking inside.

3. Radon

Radon is a natural byproduct when Uranium in the earth breaks down. It is everywhere in low concentrations but can build up inside the home through cracks in the foundation. Prolonged exposure to radon could increase your risk of developing lung cancer. One thing you can do is invest in a radon testing kit. They are fairly inexpensive and easy to use. And if your home tests positive for high levels of radon you can hire professionals to help remove it.

4. Biological Pollutants

Biological pollutants are produced by loving things. These contaminants include viruses, bacteria, pet dander, mold, mites, and pollen. Some minor health effects of biological contaminants include sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath, watery eyes, lethargy, and some types of asthma. An allergic reaction can also occur because of repeated exposure. To minimize these pollutants in indoor air it is important to ventilate certain areas of the home to prevent moisture build-up, use dehumidifiers, keep the house clean, and replace HVAC filters regularly.

5. Asbestos

This is a mineral fiber that occurs naturally in soil and rock. It has a heat resistance and strength and was used in a variety of construction materials as a fire retardant. It has been used in roofing shingles, ceiling and floor tiles, heat-resistant fabrics, and asbestos cement products. Asbestos fibers are often released into the air during construction, remodeling, or demolition work. Prolonged asbestos exposure can lead to mesothelioma, lung cancer, and the asbestos disease which is a long-term, non-cancer lung disease. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken measures to ensure asbestos products are evaluated, restricted, or prohibited.

For more information about indoor air quality or air conditioning repair in San Jose, CA contact Pelle Heating and Air Conditioning.