For most of us, our air conditioners do an adequate job of catching airborne particulates — that is, if you use a quality, pleated air filter. But if someone in your household has a respiratory problem or you suspect that certain kinds of pollutants are proliferating, you may have wondered if you need an air quality test.
Testing the Air Quality: Yes or No?
To begin, there is no one air quality test that tests for all the pollutants that may be in your home, such as:
- Dust
- Pet dander
- Dust mites and other insect particles
- Pollen
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Carbon monoxide
- Mold
- Radon
So what should a homeowner do to detect these pollutants?
Some of them will be obvious, such as dust and mold, which you can recognize on sight or, in the case of mold, by its smell. You probably also know if you have a shedding pet whether or not you’re allergic to the pet dander. Pollen? It wafts inside our homes in the air and on our clothes, so you probably can guess if it’s affecting you indoors. Sniffling when you’re near pillows, mattresses, or carpets can mean there’s an abundance of dust mites present. While there’s no air quality test for these substances, you can control them with frequent vacuuming, with a HEPA filter, or with an air purifier.
Carbon monoxide, a deadly gas given off by fuel-burning appliances, can be detected by monitors. Air-quality monitors are sold that detect CO and may also detect VOCs and tobacco smoke. (Again, if someone smokes in your home, you know when the fumes are present.) The air-quality monitors will alert you — particularly in the case of CO — when dangerous levels are reached.
Radon, a cancer-causing substance in the ground, may have drifted from the ground into your home. If you suspect it, call a radon specialist to test your home. You may need to have a radon barrier installed.
For more on the value of an air quality test, contact Energy 1 Heating and Air Conditioning. We serve Lorain and the surrounding area.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area