We’ve all recently learned a hard lesson about the importance of the quality and cleanliness of indoor air. Many medical experts have written about the risks of indoor air pollutants and how they can affect our health. And the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that our indoor air can be even more polluted than outdoor air.

But what are these common indoor air pollutants — and more importantly, what can you do about them?

Sources of Indoor Air Pollutants

One of the key sources of indoor air pollutants are old, deteriorated construction and design products. Insulation may contain asbestos, old carpet can off-gas chemical fumes, even cleaning products can add to the mix.

Many of the modern manufactured products we bring into our homes also contain air pollutants, like air fresheners, new carpet, paint, and upholstery.

Top Indoor Air Pollutants You’ll Find

The Environmental Protection Agency lists the following common indoor air pollutants:

Asbestos

Asbestos has been used extensively for many years because of its ability to resist heat and flame. Unfortunately, it can still be found in the building materials in many homes, from roofing shingles to floor tiles.

Biological pollutants

Biological pollutants include bacteria, mold, viruses, pet dander, dust mites, and pollen. Some can cause serious problems with your health.

Carbon monoxide (CO)

Carbon monoxide is so dangerous because it can’t be seen, tasted, or smelled. The causes of CO poisoning are kerosene space heaters, leaky furnaces, gas stoves, generators, and other combustion engine machinery.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is frequently used in pressed wood products and other construction materials. It can cause respiratory irritation, and in high doses, even cancer.

Lead

Lead paint dust is a seriously dangerous indoor air pollutant that can cause brain damage in both adults and children.

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

Nitrogen Dioxide is a respiratory irritant that can cause lung damage in severe cases. Its main sources are combustion appliances, like gas stoves and heaters.

Particulate matter

Particulate matter over 10 micrometers are a concern, because they can cause damage to the heart and lungs. These particulates are caused by fireplaces, candles, heaters, and tobacco use.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

You may have seen home improvement products boasting that they contain no VOCs. The volatile organic compounds are found in thousands of home products, from paints and varnishes to cleaning supplies and cosmetics.

What to Do About Indoor Air Pollutants

There are three basic steps to mitigating the dangerous pollutants in your home. The first is to control the sources. The second is to improve ventilation by ensuring that adequate outdoor air enters the home.

The third step is to invest in air cleaning devices. The EPA offers advice on the types available and their effectiveness.

Also, make an appointment today with the experts at One Hour Air in Miami. We can install efficient, professional-grade air cleaning devices so you can breathe easy.