The most common pollutants found inside your home are dust and pollen (in non-smoking households). Beyond that, there is a list of compounds known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) which are a harmful health risk for you and your family. These compounds are defined by the EPA as follows:
“Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short and long-term adverse health effects.”
The EPA also cautions us by stating, “…studies indicated that while people are using products containing organic chemicals, they can expose themselves and others to very high pollutant levels, and elevated concentrations can persist in the air long after the activity is completed”
The importance of testing your indoor air quality cannot be understated. Only after testing will you know what steps to take to purify your indoor air. The goal is to know your test results so that you can decide exactly what steps need to be taken to improve your HVAC system with media filtration, UV technology, and other options to ensure your breathe the cleanest air possible inside your home.
To see a comprehensive, while not exhaustive, list of known VOCs and the symptoms associated with overexposure, please visit our IAQ Volatile Organic Compounds page.
If you have any questions, concerns, or would just like the peace of mind that goes with knowing that your indoor air is as clean as possible for your health, give us a call today!
Photo by: Fred Rivett on Unsplash
References:
https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality#intro
Photo:
https://unsplash.com/photos/PP_i3rBa8CU
