The Environmental Protection Agency defines indoor air quality (IAQ) as the quality of air in buildings as it relates to the health of occupants. By controlling indoor pollutants, you help reduce concerns about poor IAQ health. The daunting task of removing airborne contaminants from your home is left to your HVAC unit. Here’s the what, why, and how of it:
Pollutants
If you’re under the impression that pollutants consist only of dust and dirt, you’re just scratching the surface. The following pollutants are found in many homes:
- Biological pollutants. Biological contaminants include viruses, bacteria, molds, pollen, mites, animal dander, and insect parts.
- Carbon monoxide (CO). An odorless, tasteless, and colorless toxic gas, CO can cause serious and potentially deadly harm before you are aware of its presence.
- Formaldehyde. Formaldehyde may be found in pressed wood materials, carpeting, and upholstery.
- Pesticides. Inherently toxic, pesticides control or kill pests, rodents, fungi, and bacteria.
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Emitted as gases from chemicals, paints, solvents, and other substances, VOCs may pose serious short- and long-term health effects.
Effects of Poor IAQ Health
IAQ pollutants often cause short- and/or long-term adverse health affects. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, more than 79,000 children were involved in pesticide poisonings or exposures in a single year.
- Short-term: Short-term IAQ health effects may include increased asthma and/or COPD problems, nasal congestion, eye irritation, sore throat, and more.
- Long-term: Long-term IAQ health effects may include damage to kidneys, liver, and the central nervous system and may also cause cancer.
How Your HVAC System Can Help
Your HVAC system consists of all the units and parts that condition, clean, and ventilate the air in your home. In addition to your furnace and AC, remember that your ductwork, air cleaners, and regular maintenance play vital roles in good IAQ health.
- Ductwork. Leaks in ductwork can draw in pollutants from outside the living spaces.
- Filters and air cleaners. Medium-efficiency filters remove common dust, but air cleaners, such as HEPA, UV, and/or electrostatic, help remove microscopic pollutants from indoor air.
- Pro maintenance. Your AC and gas-burning furnace need professional service each year to ensure safe ventilation and clean surfaces.
To speak with a professional about IAQ health and your HVAC unit, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area