It is estimated that indoor air is two to five times more polluted compared to outdoor air. This fact brings to light the very much ignored but dangerous problem of indoor air pollution and how it affects our health. The quality of air breathed in inside the homes and offices thus affects the health of an individual, with 90% of one's life in majority spent indoors. Indoor air quality that is poor can create irritations, ranging from simple to more severe conditions, especially in people suffering from respiratory problems. This article discusses indoor air pollution sources, their effects on health, and what can be done in order to improve the quality of air one breathes inside their home. Trust Inch by Inch Inspections for mold removal in Toronto and air quality testing in Toronto to ensure your indoor environment is in the best possible shape it can be in.
Common Sources of Indoor Air Pollution
Tobacco Smoke
There are over 7,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke, many of them are toxic and can cause cancer. Exposure may particularly have serious health effects on children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions. Tobacco smoke can give rise to health problems such as respiratory issues, heart disease, or cancer.
Tips for Reducing Exposure:
- Implement a strict no-smoking policy indoors.
- Designate outdoor areas for smoking far from windows and doors.
- Use air purifiers to help remove lingering smoke particles from the air.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are fungi, particularly growing in damp and humid locations, such as bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. They reproduce by releasing spores into the air, which can trigger allergy and asthma attacks, among other respiratory problems. Long-term exposure to mold increases one's risk for more serious health complications.
Prevention and Remediation Tips:
- One must reduce the humidity of the property to below 50% using a dehumidifier or an air conditioner.
- Fix leaks and ensure proper ventilation in areas with excessive moisture.
- For persistent mold problems, consider professional mold removal, especially to prevent further contamination and health risks.
Household Cleaning Products
Many of the cleaning products used in households contain chemicals that can release volatile organic compounds into the air, such as ammonia, bleach, and phthalates. The released VOCs may cause irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat, among others, and other serious health complications if exposed to such mixtures for a long time frame.
Some key chemicals to avoid include:
- Ammonia: Can cause respiratory problems and irritation of the eyes.
- Bleach: Potent eye, skin, and respiratory tract irritant.
- Phthalates: Often used in fragrances, they are known endocrine disruptors.
Safer Alternatives:
- Natural cleaning products, such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice
- Non-toxic or chemical-free products
- Make homemade cleaners using safe ingredients
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are a group of chemicals that tend to vaporize at room temperature and are usually found in paints, varnishes, adhesives, and sometimes even some furnishings. These mostly make up the indoor air pollution mix, contributing to both short- and long-term health effects.
Where do VOCs come from?
- Paints and finishes
- New furniture and carpets
- Air fresheners and scented candles
Health Effects and Ways to Minimize Exposure:
- Short-term exposure to VOCs can lead to headaches, dizziness, and throat irritation.
- Long-term exposure has been associated with more serious conditions, including liver and kidney damage and some cancers.
- Reduce exposure by using low-VOC or VOC-free products and improving ventilation when using and after using products emitting VOCs.
The Impact on Health
Respiratory System
Indoor air pollution is known to exacerbate respiratory diseases such as asthma and allergies. In fact, exposure to air pollutants like mold spores, tobacco smoke, and VOCs can cause new onset or aggravate pre-existing respiratory problems. If one already suffers from any respiratory conditions, then poor air quality will significantly lower the quality of life.
Occupational Exposures
The long-term consequences of exposure to indoor air pollutants can be harsh. Continuous intake of harmful particles and chemicals can result in the development of chronic respiratory diseases, while in some cases, it can pave the way to heart disease and even cancer. Even worse, it does make one very vulnerable to different diseases by dampening immune responses.
The Vulnerable Populations
Several groups are more vulnerable to the effects of indoor air pollution than others. Symptoms of asthma and other respiratory diseases are often exacerbated in children because their respiratory systems are not fully developed. On the other hand, the elderly normally suffer from diseases that tend to suppress the immune system. Meanwhile, the other effects that are harmful to the health of the population include impacts on indoor air quality as a result of previous health conditions, like diseases of the cardiovascular systems and asthmatic conditions.
Improving Indoor Air Quality
Indoor Plants
Indoor plants are another naturally effective way to purify the air. Some plants help filter airborne toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air.
Specific Plants that Help Purify the Air:
- The snake plant is handy with formaldehyde and other toxins.
- The spider plant is good for filtering out carbon monoxide and xylene.
- Peace Lilys ensure that mold levels in the air are at a low level.
Air Purifiers
If someone is looking for a healthy atmosphere indoors, then air purifiers are a significant investment. These purifiers work by filtering the particles and other pollutants in the air, thus purifying the indoor environment.
Types of Air Purifiers and Their Efficiency :
- HEPA Filters: These trap particles sized to 0.3 microns, such as bacteria, pollen, dust, and some pet dander.
- Activated Carbon Filters: Effective for odors, gases, and VOCs.
- UV-C Purifiers: Uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and mold spores
Ventilation
An increase in better ventilation is one of the most natural approaches to adopt in attempts to improve air quality in a home. Proper ventilation will reduce the volume of air contaminants by bringing in fresh air and taking out the contaminated air at a faster rate.
Tips for Improving Ventilation:
- There should be regular opening of doors and windows, particularly during product use labelled as for producing VOCs.
- Speed up ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms through the use of exhaust fans that will eliminate excess moisture and pollutants. Consider whole-house ventilation systems to exchange air continuously.
Enjoy a Healthier Home with Inch by Inch Inspections
Indoor air pollution is a real problem, and health impacts can be severe in the most vulnerable populations. Understanding the sources of common indoor pollutants and ways to reduce exposure can lead to cleaner air in your home and help you live a healthier life. Go for indoor plants or air purifiers, and make sure the setting indoors is well-ventilated. At Inch by Inch Inspections, we offer the most vital services that an individual who likes being proactive about a healthy home can utilize. Services that range from mold removal in Toronto to air quality testing in Toronto. Don't wait until you notice a problem with your air quality. Do something now to ensure you are breathing clean, safe air.