Indoor air quality is important. Just like we pay attention to pollution outside, we should also focus on pollution inside. While many factors can affect your indoor air quality, dust, dirt, debris, and other pollutants can affect your health and may trigger asthma or other breathing issues.

Here are some common types of indoor air pollutions and some tips on how to cut down on bad air in your home.

Radon & Carbon Monoxide

Radon and carbon monoxide are odorless gases that can be found in homes. Both are carcinogens and can have drastic effects, particularly carbon monoxide which can lead to death.

What to Do: Test your basement or low-lying areas for Radon and have a professional install a mitigation system to rid the toxin from the air. Install carbon monoxide alarms around your home to protect you and your family.

VOCs—Volatile Organic Compounds

Hairsprays, cleaners, glue, paint, chemicals, and other compounds in your home end up in the air. Breathing these chemicals in is not good for your health.

What to Do: Discuss options for high-efficiency filters with your HVAC technician. You can also cut down on spraying chemicals around your home or switch to healthier cleaning chemicals.

Particulates

If you burn wood, pellet, or even coal in your home, you’re releasing particulates into the air and your lungs.

What to Do: Stay on top of your furnace filter to ensure it’s clean and that it’s changed regularly. You can also invest in an air purification system to improve indoor air quality.

Biohazards

Biohazards found in your home can have severe effects on your health. Common types of these pollutants are mold, mildew, bacteria, viruses, and pet dander.

What to Do: The issue might be due to poor air filtration. Speak to an HVAC technician to discuss filtration options. Make sure to lean your home regularly and to sanitize high point areas frequently.

Smoke

Smoke from tobacco is detrimental to your health and can have negative effects on others through second-hand smoking

What to Do: If you or someone else in your home is a smoker, go outside to smoke or consider quitting.

How can you prevent common air pollutants from taking a toll on your HVAC system?

Regular system maintenance and checkups can help improve your indoor air quality as well as keep your HVAC system in check. Change your air filter regularly to avoid putting additional strain on your heating ventilation, and cooling system.

Indoor Air Quality Specialists in Atlantic County, NJ

The quality of the air you breathe is important to us. We care about your health and your comfort. One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning of Pleasantville is committed to providing services and options to improve your indoor air quality. Contact our indoor air quality specialists today to breathe better.