What Causes Indoor Air Quality Problems? *
Indoor pollution sources that release gases or particles into the air are the primary cause of indoor air quality problems in homes. Inadequate ventilation can increase indoor pollutant levels by not bringing in enough outdoor air to dilute emissions from indoor sources and by not carrying indoor air pollutants out of the home. High temperature and humidity levels can also increase concentrations of some pollutants.
Most houses don't breathe. There is no mechanical means to bring in fresh air and exhaust polluted air - except by opening windows and doors. But with energy costs steadily increasing, most people make every effort to conserve heating or cooling. Thus the stale inside air is not diluted with fresh air from the outside. Pollutants build and recirculate. Ventilation systems become more contaminated. The result: increased health risk to you and your family.
Another key factor is housekeeping. Keeping surfaces clean and hygienic not only makes sense from an appearance standpoint, but also minimizes dust and biological pollutants that may trigger allergies and asthma. A somethimes overlooked problem is dirty heating & airconditioning / ductwork systems. The removal of such contaminants from the HVAC system and home should be considered as one component in an overall plan to improve indoor air quality.
Pollutants and Sources of Indoor Air Pollution
Read "The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality"
*Note: Much of this information is drawn from The United States Environmental Protection Agency. For further information from governmental authorities visit www.epa.gov/iaq
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