Indoor Air Quality: Indoor Air Quality Information
Many types of indoor pollution problems are found in homes. The most effective approach to solving these problems is usually to remove or reduce the sources of indoor pollution. Ventilation also helps remove indoor air pollutants, but not as effectively as source reduction. Air cleaning devices (air filters and air cleaners) can also be helpful when used along with source reduction and ventilation.
The best solution to the air pollution within your home will depend, of course, on your particular problem, the effect it is having on your family's health, and your family's budget. The information below will help you decide if an air cleaning device would be useful as a part of your solution to indoor pollution, and if so, what type might best meet your needs. Many of the principles discussed here also apply to offices, schools, and vehicles.
Dangerous as polluted outdoor air can be to health, polluted indoor air actually poses a greater health risk on a global level. Indoor air pollution is a concern in the developed countries, where, for example, energy efficiency improvements sometimes make houses relatively airtight, reducing ventilation and raising indoor pollutant levels.
In such circumstances, even minor sources of pollution - a furnace, new carpet, or naturally occurring radon gas – can lead to significant exposures. Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of air in the indoor environment within a building or an institution or commercial facility. These characteristics can be influenced by many factors, even though these buildings or facilities do not have industrial processes and operations found in factories and plants.
Factors that influence IAQ include the following.
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Inadequate supply of outside air.
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Contamination arising from sources within the building (e.g., combustion products including carbon monoxide and environmental tobacco smoke; volatile organic compounds from building materials, fabric furnishings, carpet, adhesives, fresh paint, new paneling, and cleaning products; ozone from office equipment).
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Contamination from outside the building (e.g., ozone, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter) through air intakes, infiltration, open doors, and windows.
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Microbial contamination of ventilation systems or building interiors.
If you need help with your indoor air quality or testing your indoor air quality, don't hesitate to call our easy to remember 24 hour hotline ( 1-800-Any-Tyme - Remember to dial Y in T yme). We will send an air conditioning technician out to your San Diego residence or business. In a hurry? Fill out our 30 second Online Service Form now or chat live with an Air Conditioning Technician. Check out our Safety Information page for a how to guide to keep from harming yourself or others while you repair. All San Diego Residents can receive $20 OFF any service repair. Discount must be mentioned at time of order. Call Now!
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