The month of February has been named National Care About Your Indoor Air Month. As the average person spends around 90 percent of time indoors, it is especially important to ensure your indoor air is of high quality and not polluted.
The best way to ensure proper indoor air quality (IAQ) is to be aware of what causes it to decline, and how to stop it. The main cause for polluted air are chemicals found in your home. Building materials, office products and even furnishings can give off airborne chemicals. These can be the most harmful as they lead to a number of health issues. Minimize your use of harsh cleaners and choose low-emitting products, and be aware that certain activities, like painting, paint stripping or sanding should be done outside whenever possible.
Air pollution inside your home can also be attributed to mold caused by moisture problems. Molds emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which may also have negative effects on health. Control humidity levels in your home and keep it as dry as possible. If you find moisture buildup anywhere in your home, you should have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent the growth and expansion of mold.
Particles emitted from chemicals and mold are called particulates, and are another source of indoor air pollution. Particulates may also come from dust and dirt brought in from outside. These airborne particles may bring about allergies and other respiratory issues. Frequently changing your air filter will limit the pollutants, as will placing walk-off mats in doorways that bring people inside your home from the outdoors.
Most residential and commercial buildings should be tightly sealed and insulated to keep out polluted outdoor air. Ventilation systems are in place to circulate heated or cooled inside air while bringing in little from the outside. Poor ventilation will spread around polluted air, bringing down IAQ.
Use this month to ensure your home has proper IAQ. It will benefit your home and all who live in it!
Courtesy of GreenGuard
http://www.greenguard.org/en/indoorAirQuality.aspx
