3 Common Indoor Air Pollutants in Selinsgrove, PA

The negative impacts of poor air quality range from short-term effects, such as fatigue and frequent headaches, to more serious problems, such as breathing difficulties. According to the EPA, the concentration of indoor air pollutants in most Selinsgrove, PA households is two to five times higher than the outdoor levels. Fortunately, by understanding what might be degrading your IAQ, you can take the necessary measures to improve your home’s indoor air quality.

1. Volatile Organic Compounds

Cleaning your home is a great way to protect your family’s health. But did you know that your cleaning products and lack of fresh air could be the reason behind your poor IAQ?

The volatile organic compounds released when you’re cleaning react with other chemicals in the air, forming harmful by-products. Some minor reactions from VOC exposure are nausea as well as throat and eye irritation. According to the National Library of Medicine, long-term exposure could lead to lung cancer in a worst-case scenario.

2. Pet Hair and Dander

Your pets release dead skin and fur while they’re indoors, compromising the quality of the air you breathe. Sometimes these contaminants linger in the air, but other times, they settle on your carpet, bedding, or couch.

According to the American Lung Association, pet dander lingers longer in the air compared to other pollutants. And exposure to these allergens can make breathing difficult for asthmatic loved ones or the elderly.

3. Indoor Particulate Matter

Your HVAC system keeps your indoor temperatures comfortable while cleaning the air in your home. This is primarily the work of your system’s filters, which trap dust, dirt, and other indoor air contaminants.

However, if you don’t change the filters regularly, it becomes quite hard for your system to clean the air. Even worse, the HVAC re-releases the already-trapped pollutants indoors, making life uncomfortable, especially for family members with allergies.

Is your indoor air quality compromised, causing you to cough, sneeze and have restless nights? For over five years, we’ve been offering air quality management solutions for residents in Selinsgrove, PA. Contact The HVAC Guys to learn more about our indoor air quality solutions and what best serves your needs.

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