Many people don’t realize that air pollution within the home can be even worse than air pollution outside; indoor air can contain a wide range of toxins that can cause immediate and future health problems. Fortunately, there are several ways to combat indoor air pollution.
Impact of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) on Health
Paints, varnishes, cleaning supplies, air fresheners and even certain pieces of furniture can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air when used indoors. The toxic effects of VOCs can range from mild annoyances to life-threatening illnesses. Headaches, vertigo and nose, throat and eye discomfort are common short-term side effects. Extended exposure to elevated concentrations of VOCs can cause damage to the liver and kidneys, problems with the central nervous system and, in rare instances, an elevated risk of specific malignancies. Exposure to VOCs may also worsen symptoms for those with respiratory diseases, including asthma. Selecting low-VOC items, working in areas with adequate ventilation and keeping chemicals and solvents in sealed containers away from inhabited areas are all effective ways to reduce VOC exposure.
Health Effects of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Exposure
Most carbon monoxide (CO) in homes comes from appliances that burn fuel, like gas stoves, furnaces, water heaters and fireplaces. Headaches, vertigo, weakness, nausea and confusion are some of the symptoms that low-level CO exposure can mimic. As exposure levels increase, symptoms will intensify and can even progress to death, unconsciousness or vomiting. Neurological impairment and cardiovascular problems are among the long-term health impacts that might result from chronic exposure to low amounts of CO. Those most at risk from CO exposure include those who are pregnant, have young children, are elderly or have a history of heart or respiratory problems. The best way to protect yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning is to make sure your home has enough ventilation and to check and maintain any appliances that burn fuel. It’s also critical to install CO detectors in the home, which Environmental Heating & Air Solutions can help with.
Risks Associated with Formaldehyde Exposure
You can find formaldehyde in many common household items, including pressed-wood products like particleboard and plywood, as well as in several adhesives, preservatives and fabrics. The release of formaldehyde into the air can occur as a result of these materials’ aging or exposure to heat and humidity. Even brief contact with formaldehyde can irritate the nasal passages, throat and eyes, and trigger respiratory symptoms including coughing and wheezing. Some people might even have allergic reactions or skin irritations. Serious health problems, such as respiratory disorders and an increased risk of some cancers, especially nasopharyngeal cancer, have been associated with long-term exposure to high amounts of formaldehyde. Selecting low-emission items, keeping the house at a reasonable temperature and humidity and making sure there is enough ventilation are all ways to lessen your exposure to formaldehyde.
Effects of Indoor Mold and Fungal Spores
Fungal spores and mold are prevalent biological contaminants in many indoor settings, particularly those that have had water damage or excessive humidity. People with asthma, allergies or compromised immune systems are more susceptible to the myriad health issues that mold exposure can bring on. Nasal congestion, itchy eyes, coughing and skin rashes are common reactions. Mycotoxins, produced by certain molds, can lead to more significant health complications, such as neurological issues and, extremely rarely, lung bleeding. Controlling moisture levels, fixing water leaks quickly and ensuring sufficient ventilation, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, are critical steps for mold prevention and exposure reduction.
Health Implications of Tobacco Smoke Indoors
The smoke from cigarettes contains more than seven thousand compounds, including 70 that are known to cause cancer, making it a major contributor to air pollution in enclosed spaces. Indoor non-smokers are at increased risk of developing major health problems due to secondhand smoke, which is a combination of smoke from burning cigarettes and smoke inhaled by smokers. Even brief exposure to secondhand smoke can irritate the eyes, bring on headaches and make you sick to your stomach. Heart disease, stroke and lung cancer are just a few of the many health complications that can worsen with prolonged exposure. Children are particularly vulnerable to the health risks posed by thirdhand smoke, which consists of the nicotine and other chemicals that remain on surfaces in homes after a person smokes.
Air Duct Cleaning
Air duct cleaning is one of Environmental Heating & Air Solutions‘s most important services to improve the air quality in a home. Dust, debris and mold can settle into air ducts over time and spread throughout your house via the HVAC system. By removing these impurities, our expert air duct cleaning service can help lower the dust and pollen levels in your home’s air. This improves air quality and can even help reduce your energy bills by making your HVAC system more efficient.
Air Sealing Services
The air sealing services provided by Environmental Heating & Air Solutions are essential for preserving healthy indoor air. If there are cracks in the home’s exterior structure, air can seep in and contaminate the air within. Air leaks like this are common around openings like windows and doors. Our skilled technicians can locate and fix them. Not only does this help with energy efficiency, but it also helps keep bugs, dampness and external contaminants out. In places with potentially high levels of outdoor air pollution, such as cities or regions close to busy roadways, this service is especially important.
Air Ventilation Services
Upgrading your ventilation systems has multiple benefits, including the mitigation of indoor air pollutants, regulation of humidity levels, prevention of mold growth and the creation of a more pleasant indoor environment. Regular replacement of stale interior air with fresh outdoor air is a key component of our ventilation systems, which helps reduce and eliminate air contaminants. Plus, we are able to install or improve ventilation systems based on an assessment of your home’s unique requirements. This may involve adding kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans, a whole-house ventilation system or energy recovery ventilators. Mechanical ventilation systems permanently replace stale indoor air with clean outdoor air, reducing the concentration of airborne contaminants and ensuring consistent air quality. ERVs improve energy efficiency and maintain a consistent flow of clean air throughout the house by recovering heat or cold from the exchanged air.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Environmental Heating & Air Solutions provides CO detector installation and maintenance services to safeguard against CO exposure concerns. This gas is odorless, colorless and potentially fatal; therefore, these devices are essential for early detection. Every floor of your home, particularly those that are close to bedrooms, should include a carbon monoxide detector. From standalone units to plug-in models with battery backups or systems that link with your home’s wiring, our professionals can assist you in selecting the best CO detector for your needs. We also offer maintenance checks to make sure your CO detectors are working properly.
Environmental Heating & Air Solutions is here to make your home a more comfortable and safe place to live. We offer an array of indoor air quality services. We also specialize in HVAC installations, gas water heaters, blower door testing, home automation, house fans and much more. Give us a call today to learn more about our expert indoor air quality services in Benicia, CA.
