Risks Associated with Poor Indoor Air Quality
Air pollution is one of the pressing issues of our times. While the air quality we breathe outdoors is not in our control, the indoor air quality (IAQ) is. As an average person spends 90% of their time indoors, it is essential to pay attention to the quality of the air we consume. Inhaling compromised air is detrimental to our health and causes problems for the heating and cooling system. According to WHO, around 4 million people lose their lives suffering from illnesses caused by household air pollution. It is a testament to the severity of the situation.
Factors that lead to indoor air contamination
It is essential to know about the pollutants that affect the air indoors to resolve the issue. Some of the common factors include a poorly maintained HVAC system, Volatile Organic Compound (VOC), mold and allergens like pet dander, pollen, dust, dust mites, moisture, and poor ventilation tobacco smoke, particulate matter, chemicals, and formaldehyde.
Consequences of poor indoor air quality
Here are some of the risks associated with the contaminated indoor air that should concern you:
Health Problems
There are both short and long-term health effects associated with continuous exposure to polluted indoor air. It not only affects productivity, mood, energy levels, and concentration but can also lead to severe health problems. Short-term effects of inhaling contaminated air on the residents include itchy eyes, sore throat, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, nasal congestion, headache, skin ailments, and worsened allergy and asthma symptoms. Long-term exposure to contaminated indoor air can lead to asthma in young children and increases the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, neurological disorders, and other chronic health conditions. Airborne pollution also impacts pregnant women and young children.
HVAC problems
When several pollutants are floating in the air, the filters contributing to the HVAC system's efficiency get dirty and clogged in no time and reduce airflow. Dirty filters also cause the spread of these contaminants to other areas of the home. Dust and particulate matter also accumulate in the ductwork, coils, and other equipment that can damage the system. All these factors reduce system efficiency and wear out of the parts, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
High energy bills
Clogged filters and ductwork due to air pollutants cause the heating and cooling unit to strive harder to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. Reduced system performance and reliability have a direct impact on the utility bills. Whenever you experience higher energy bills than usual, check the filter and ductwork for mold, pests, dust, and other contaminants hampering its smooth operation.
How to ensure better indoor air quality
Ensure proper ventilation
Upgrade to high-efficiency filters
Change the filters and clean the vents regularly
Routine HVAC service and maintenance
Get a dehumidifier to control the humidity levels
Install an air purifier
Get the home tested for radon
Poor indoor air quality is the root cause of several problems that are too hard to ignore. Contact an air conditioning and heating service expert to get the indoor air quality tested and for suggestions on efficient solutions to mitigate the risks associated with contaminated indoor air and ensure a clean and healthy indoor environment.
Stud Air Conditioning is a full-service installation, maintenance, and repair HVAC company serving Broward, Miami-Dade, West Palm Beach, and Port St. Lucie counties. Call us when you need help with your heating or cooling needs at (954)324-2905. We can help!
