Observe National Wellness Month This August Using These Tips

National Wellness Month Is the Perfect Time To Give Your Indoor Air Quality a Checkup

This August, as people across the nation take steps to improve their overall health and well-being in honor of National Wellness Month, there’s never been a better time to address indoor air quality. Most homeowners don’t realize the profound impact their home’s air quality can have on their immediate and long-term health. After all, it doesn’t seem like a very urgent issue at first glance - especially since everyone tends to get used to the air in their own homes, and it’s not always easy to tell when it has become contaminated with harmful pollutants. But safety starts with awareness, so this article will outline everything homeowners need to know about indoor air quality and its effects on health.

Indoor Air Quality Explained

Indoor air quality is determined by the level of airborne pollutants present in a given space. A high level of pollutants translates to low or poor air quality, while low pollutant levels mean the space has high or good air quality. The nature of the pollutants also makes a difference in the air quality rating - some are more dangerous than others.

Indoor air quality is managed or improved both by minimizing (or eliminating) sources of pollutants and by capturing or removing pollutants using an HVAC system. Filtration, ventilation, and humidity control are the key aspects that help maintain good air quality, although temperature control also plays a role.

Indoor Air Pollutants Commonly Found in Homes

When most people think of household air pollutants, they usually picture dust, hair, pollen, and pet dander. These are highly common, but they’re also among the least harmful pollutants. They’re also large enough to be captured by most air filters. 

On the more dangerous end of the spectrum are mold spores (common in humid regions), smoke, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in many household cleaning and beauty products, and gases like carbon monoxide and radon. These pollutants are made up of tiny particles, which means the more advanced air filter models can only capture them.

Health and IAQ

As one can imagine, breathing in pollutants of any kind, day after day, is less than desirable - the negative health effects of poor indoor air quality can range from unpleasant to debilitating or even deadly. The less dangerous pollutants can cause cold-like symptoms, eye irritation, and other respiratory issues for just about anyone, but can be especially problematic for asthma or allergies.

The dangers only get worse from there. Certain types of mold can cause serious respiratory illness with prolonged exposure. VOCs can cause headaches, nausea, eye and respiratory irritation, and organ damage. Carbon monoxide and exhaust can cause poisoning and asphyxiation, which may result in brain damage or death. Smoke and radon can cause cancer and other long-term diseases. 

Considering the risks, homeowners can hardly find a better way to protect the health and well-being of themselves and their families than by asking an HVAC or air quality specialist to take steps to improve their indoor air quality.  

About Sunset Heating & Cooling

Sunset Heating & Cooling has been a staple of the Portland, OR community since 1922. Their honest pricing, expert workmanship, and superior customer service have earned them an A+ rating from the BBB and countless 5-star ratings from their customers. They offer personalized solutions, financing, and a rewarding membership plan. Call now for air conditioning service!

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