Dangers Of Indoor Air Pollution

When we think of our homes, we think of a place where we can always go to be safe and comfortable. Danger is not a word that readily comes to mind. But danger may indeed be lurking inside your four walls and it may be in the form of unhealthy air. As hard as it may be to believe, the air quality in your home could be far more hazardous to your health than the outside air. In fact, some environmental studies conclude that indoor air quality (IAQ) can be as much as five times as unhealthy as outside air. Masters Heating & Cooling Inc. takes indoor air quality issues seriously and we are always ready to help our customers do the same.

Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality can be impacted by numerous factors and can really become more of an issue during the winter months, when homes are sealed up tight to keep out the cold. Add to the mix your home’s HVAC system, which does a fantastic job of circulating the air (both bad and good) and you have a good recipe for unhealthy IAQ. In addition to mold, dirt, pollen, dust mites and other organic pollutants, households are also a potential source for chemical pollutants. These may include formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, asbestos and fumes released by household products such as hairspray, deodorants, cleaners, paints and floor/furniture polishes. Appliances such as stoves, clothes dryers and water heaters can emit harmful gases, as well. Poor IAQ has been linked to numerous health issues, including headaches, respiratory problems, chronic colds/sore throats, skin and eye irritations, fatigue/lethargy and even cancer.

Carbon Monoxide

There is perhaps no bigger health threat posed by unhealthy IQ than carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, especially during the winter months. CO poisoning accounts for more than 400 deaths and tens of thousands of hospitalizations annually in the U.S. Appliances that combust fuel such as water heaters and clothes dryers may emit harmful levels of CO that are not operating properly. These appliances should be inspected each winter to make sure that they are working safely. CO detectors should also be a staple in every home.

Air Purification

A great solution to promoting safe IAQ is to invest in air purification systems/equipment. Masters offers Carrier air purifiers, which trap and eliminate bacteria and other airborne pollutants. We also offer advanced Honeywell air filters with high MERV ratings, whole home humidifiers/dehumidifiers and ultraviolet light systems that kill bacteria collecting on the inner components of your HVAC system. Call us today to find out more about these solutions and to schedule an indoor air analysis. Or stop by one of our locations in Fort Wayne, Decatur, Angola, Indianapolis, Greenwood and Mishawaka, IN. You may also visit us online via our social media platforms.