What causes indoor air quality problems?
Two main items: 1. Pollutant sources: building materials and furnishings; biologicals; products for household cleaning, personal care or hobbies; central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices; pesticides; oil, gas, kerosene, or wood combustion sources. 2. Poor ventilation: If too little outdoor air enters a building, pollutants can accumulate to levels that can pose health and discomfort problems. Indoor air quality began to decline in the 1970’s after the “energy crisis” prompted the building of “tight” houses and office buildings. Spaces around doors and windows where outside air might previously have leaked through are now often sealed by caulking and weather-stripping. The introduction of fresh “makeup” air through air handling systems many times is reduced or even eliminated to save the cost of the energy to heat or cool this fresh air. Indoor air pollutants can not easily escape these tightly constructed buildings.
