What causes indoor air pollution?
Many everyday household items contribute to poor indoor air quality. Compounds found in carpeting, furniture and upholstery and drapery fabric consistently emit gas or fumes. Other sources of pollutants can include, but are not limited to, cleaning agents, paints and personal care products. Also, newer homes that are tightly sealed for energy efficiency tend to limit air circulation, which can contribute to a buildup of contaminants. Likewise, things like weather stripping and storm doors keep stale air in and fresh air out.
Particulate matter caused by tobacco smoke, animal dander, dust, or dirt in air ducts Biological contaminants caused by dust mites, standing water, mold, or houseplants Volatile organic compounds caused by moth balls, carpet fumes, or dry cleaned clothing Toxic chemicals caused by household cleaning products, pesticides, paint, paint thinner, or glues
Many everyday unsuspected household items contribute to poor indoor air quality. Compounds found in carpeting, furniture, upholstery and drapery fabric constantly emit gas or fumes. Other sources of pollutants can include, but are not limited to, cleaning agents, paints and personal care products. Newer, more energy-efficient homes do not breathe like older homes. Things like weather stripping and storm doors keep indoor air in and outdoor air out. This provides energy savings, but the limited exchange of outdoor and indoor air can mean a buildup of contaminants inside your home.
Many everyday household items contribute to poor indoor air quality. Compounds found in carpeting, furniture, upholstery and drapery fabric consistently emit gas or fumes. Other sources of pollutants can include, but are not limited to, cleaning agents, paints and personal care products. Also, newer homes that are tightly sealed for energy efficiency tend to limit air circulation, which can contribute to a buildup of contaminants. Likewise, things like weather stripping and storm doors keep stale air in and fresh air out.
Air pollution in the home is often misunderstood or underestimated. Since the mid nineteen eighties, building scientists have had to come to grip with the terms Sick Building Syndrome and ‘Building Related Illness’. The first complaints relating to illnesses associated with the indoor environment came out of the workplace and included problems such as migraines, nausea, sinus problems or even worse. Now, these same scientists are beginning to focus on residential buildings and they are finding even worse pollution problems right inside the home. What is supposed to be a safe haven for the family, has turned out to be an extremely unsafe environment in terms of occupant health. Close to 250 chemicals are used in the building materials that make up a house. With the introduction of new household products like cleaners, personal care products and simple things such as ‘air fresheners’, we are building up a substantial arsenal of chemicals in our homes. Warm and humid conditions in the hom
