6 Common Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality

Are you aware of the air quality within your home? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that poor indoor air quality is one of the top environmental health risks. Indoor spaces can become contaminated with toxic particles, leading to potential hazards for you and your family. In this post, we’ll review six common signs of poor indoor air quality that should prompt an immediate response from homeowners. We will also explore causes and solutions, so read on to learn more about common signs of poor ventilation in the house.

Cold Symptoms

One of the most common signs of poor indoor air quality is the occurrence of cold-like symptoms in individuals. These symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, and congestion. Although these symptoms are similar to those seen in the case of a regular cold, they tend to persist even after the individual has recovered. The presence of mold, pollen, and other allergens in the air can trigger these symptoms, leading to discomfort and illness. Additionally, polluted air can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to other respiratory infections.

Unpleasant Smells

Another sign of polluted air inside the home is unpleasant and persistent odours. Various factors, such as dust, pet dander, mold, chemicals, and tobacco smoke, can cause these. These odours can cause nausea, headaches, and respiratory issues in individuals. The presence of toxic chemicals in the air can also lead to long-term health consequences, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or neurological issues. Addressing the root cause of these odours is crucial in mitigating their negative impact on one’s health.

Unexplained Skin Redness and Rashes

Poor indoor air quality is also linked to unexplained skin redness and rashes. These conditions occur when the skin comes into contact with harmful chemicals or substances in the air. Chemicals like formaldehyde, commonly found in materials like furniture and carpets, can cause skin irritation. Additionally, exposure to mold and other allergens can cause skin rashes. If an individual experiences skin rashes or irritation without any reasonable explanation, it is important to inspect the indoor air quality and take measures to improve it. With a professional home inspection service, you can get air-quality alerts and take remedial actions.

Increased Asthma Triggers

Air pollution is a major contributor to the rising cases of asthma. Indoor air pollutants such as mold, pet dander, and tobacco smoke trigger asthma attacks. When inhaled, these substances can irritate the airways, leading to inflammation and narrowing of the air passages, resulting in lung disease. In fact, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Therefore, it is essential to improve indoor air quality, such as using air purifiers and ensuring proper ventilation.

Dust Buildup

Dust buildup is a common sign of poor indoor air quality. Dust is a mixture of dirt, pollen, skin cells, and other particles, including bacteria and allergens. When these particles accumulate in your home, they can trigger allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, chest pain, and a runny nose. Worse yet, dust can harbour mites that feed on skin flakes, leading to skin irritations and allergic reactions. Regular cleaning, including vacuuming carpets and using air filters, can significantly reduce dust buildup and improve indoor air quality. Additionally, removing shoes before entering the house can reduce the amount of dirt and dust that is tracked into your home. If you are buying a home, it is recommended to schedule buyers inspection services and take appropriate actions to avoid any risk.

Mold Growth

Mold growth is a common problem in many households, especially in damp areas or if there have been previous water leaks. However, it is also one of the most alarming signs of poor indoor air quality. Not only does mold cause a musty and unpleasant smell, but it can also trigger respiratory problems and allergies.

When mold spores are inhaled, they can cause various health effects. In more severe cases, it can even lead to chronic lung diseases. In addition, prolonged exposure to mold can increase the chances of coronary artery disease.

It is important to identify the source of mold growth and eliminate it as soon as possible, as well as regularly cleaning and maintaining the affected areas. It is also recommended to use an air purifier to improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of mold growth.

How to Deal with Poor Air Quality Inside Home?

When dealing with poor indoor air quality, it is crucial to take proactive steps to identify the cause. Conducting comprehensive air quality testing using Air-O-Cell cassettes by a professional can help pinpoint potential sources of indoor pollution. Once problem areas have been identified, it is essential to take steps to remediate them. This may include ensuring adequate ventilation, regularly cleaning surfaces and HVAC systems, and using air purifiers to filter out harmful pollutants. Implementing healthy lifestyle habits like not smoking indoors and reducing the use of harsh chemicals can also improve indoor air quality. Given that we spend a large amount of our time indoors, taking steps to maintain clean air should be a top priority.

Conclusion

In conclusion, having high-quality indoor air is essential for good health. Poor air quality can lead to serious health problems and increase the risk of getting ill from airborne pollutants. Beyond these 6 common signs of poor indoor air quality, there are many other indicators that you may experience – such as throat irritation, dizziness, or even fatigue. Therefore, it is important to take steps to keep your indoor air clean and healthy by regular air quality testing, changing the air filters in your HVAC system, using an air purifier, or consulting an HVAC technician if needed. Taking these simple steps now can help you prevent more costly health issues down the road!