Are Some Air Particulates More Harmful Than Others?

Are harmful particulates impacting your indoor air quality? Not all particulates are harmful to all persons, and some tend to be more of an annoyance than a health issue. Harmful particulates are those that trigger allergic reactions and may even cause chronic illness. Here are examples of the annoying variety as well as the harmful particulates, along with suggestions to help you mitigate both types.

Dust and dirt.

Particles of these common substances may be tiny enough to remain airborne inside your home. They usually aren’t a major health issue, though they can be irritating to individuals with specific sensitivities. Dust and dirt settling on surfaces are also a housekeeping annoyance.

Human skin flakes.

Humans shed several millions of skin cells daily, most of them in the form of microscopic flakes of skin that are buoyant in the air. While they aren’t high on the list of harmful particulates that trigger physical reactions, skin flakes are a major component of unsightly household dust that requires vacuuming and dusting to eliminate.

Mold spores.

Active mold contamination inside a house releases millions of airborne reproductive mold spores. Too tiny to see, these harmful particulates contain mycotoxins, which may trigger severe allergy responses when inhaled by certain individuals. Exposure to airborne mold spores inside a house may also be a cause of chronic illnesses.

Smoke particles.

Sources of these microscopic airborne particles include unvented gas heaters, outdoor vehicle exhaust infiltrating the home and cigarette smoke. Originating from these toxic sources, these harmful particulates may be hazardous to your health if you inhale them. Long-term inhalation of indoor airborne smoke particles is associated with a higher risk of lung cancer and heart disease.

To help reduce particulates in household air:

• Buy quality HVAC air filters and replace the filter monthly.
• Use only a vented gas heater and appliances.
• Consider installing ultraviolet (UV) light bulbs in HVAC ductwork to neutralize organic pathogens like mold spores and bacteria.
• Maintain healthy indoor humidity in the range of 40% to 60% to inhibit mold growth.

For more about reducing both annoying and harmful particulates, consult the air-quality professionals at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.