Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is a term referring to the quality of air inside your home. The air you breathe on the interior of your home has important impacts on you and your family’s health. Some people are more susceptible than others, but breathing air that is contaminated by any number of substances can cause serious harm in the long-term if the problems are not addressed. Asthma and allergy sufferers see the most harm, but other elements present in the air such as pet dander, dust mites, radon, chemical vapors, mold, tobacco smoke, and carbon monoxide can eventually lead to lung problems and other health issues. The professionals at South Nashville Heating and Cooling consistently help our customers in the Nashville area deal with indoor air quality issues. We have many products and techniques available to help improve your home’s indoor air quality to at a healthy level.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the typical pollutants of concern include:
- Carbon Monoxide
- Radon
- Pet Dander
- Tobacco Smoke
- Molds
- Pesticides
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a gas that’s virtually undetectable without a carbon monoxide detector. It is an odorless gas that often catches people off guard and has been dubbed as a “silent killer.” It is produced from running engines, generators, heaters, grills, stoves and gas ranges. When the gas builds up in an enclosed space, people and animals alike can be poisoned and die. With nearly 200 deaths each year related to carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s certainly a verifiable risk that can be prevented. We always recommend having a working carbon monoxide detector installed in your home to help detect any threat.
Radon
Radon can have a big impact on your indoor air quality. Radon is a radioactive gas that’s found naturally. It can cause lung cancer and other health issues. Radon kits are available to test your home’s levels.
Pet Dander
Composed of tiny flecks of skin shed from animals like cats, dogs, rodents, and virtually any animal with fur or feathers, pet dander is an allergen trigger. Although dogs are sometimes an issue, people report allergies to cats many more times than dogs. Because of its microscopic size, pet dander tends to remain suspended in the air much longer than dust mites. They also stick easily to furniture, bedding and other fabrics. A good air filtration system coupled with a high MERV-rated filter can help catch a lot of pet dander. We also recommend an air purifier to help clean these particles out of the air.
Tobacco Smoke
Secondhand tobacco smoke exposure, also calling passive smoking, is a dangerous carcinogen. Tobacco smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals. Eliminating secondhand smoke inside your home will help reduce the harmful effects and will improve the indoor air quality. Filtration techniques will help improve secondhand smoke’s effects on indoor air quality, but the only way to truly eliminate it is to require smokers to go outside.
Molds
Mold spores negatively affect the air quality of your home. There are many different types of mold that can cause problems with allergies, asthmas, respiratory conditions and suppressed immune system side effects. The most effective way to control mold is a combination of germicidal UV light and a good filtration system. For help with any mold issues, reach out to the experts at South Nashville Heating and Cooling to work on a plan to help alleviate mold indoor air quality issues.
Pesticides
Pesticides are toxic to breathe. These are found in many different forms: powders, sprays, liquids, balls and foggers. They are typically used in pest control to kill insects, bacteria and other organisms. Pesticides don’t necessarily affect indoor air quality when they’re used indoors. They can also affect the indoor air quality from the outdoors through soil particles and dust, stored containers, and household surfaces that collect and release particles containing pesticides into the air. Pesticides can cause serious problems in your liver, kidneys, and nervous system. The best way to fight the intrusion of pesticides into your home is by following the instructions on the label precisely and never store pesticides in your home. Use non-chemical pesticides or natural pest-control options whenever possible.
Breathing toxic pollutants in your home, even when you don’t realize it, can be very damaging to you and to your family’s health. South Nashville Heating and Cooling would love to earn your business and help you get your indoor air quality under control. We have many options available and can help you devise a plan to a safer, cleaner home. Contact us today at 615-834-1636 or fill out the form on this page. We look forward to serving you!