How to Identify Indoor Air Quality Issues (IAQ) in your home…
And what to do about it when you discover them.
Many of us do not realize the quality of the air we breathe
can be the source of many health issues. We go on day to day thinking it is
allergies, or the common cold. So how do we know when it is a health and safety
concern? And what are the common factors to look out for? Most importantly,
what do we do to rectify the situation if we discover a problem?
There are a variety of risks we take each day, some we
choose to accept and others we might decide to avoid if we were informed of our
choices. Indoor air quality is a risk you can do something about, with minimal
effort.
In the hot days of Florida sunshine, we spend a large
majority of our time indoors enjoying the controlled temperature of air conditioning. You might even say that your risk for pollutants is greater
indoors, than out. High temperatures and high humidity levels can increase the
potential for susceptibility to pollutants. A good air filter can make all the
difference in your home’s air quality. Proper ventilation and filters can fresh
air into your home and pollutants out.
So what are the signs you may have poor air quality? Some of
the common symptoms are:
· coughing
· sneezing
· watery eyes
· fatigue
· dizziness
· headaches
· upper respiratory congestion
If you begin to notice relief from these symptoms once you
leave a room or your home, your symptoms may be caused by indoor air
contaminants. Causes of these indoor air quality IAQ problems can range from
dust, dust mites, mold, fungi, bacteria, insufficient outdoor air intake,
humidity, lighting, gases (from carpets, furniture, paint etc.), odors, carbon
dioxide, tobacco smoke, perfume- to name a few.
This sounds serious, and for many it should be take very
seriously. Not all people are affected
the same way and to the same extent. Some people may be more sensitive than
others. As the quality of air deteriorates or your exposure becomes lengthier,
more people tend to be affected.
So, what can be done?
Your ventilation system should be checked to make sure it’s
operating properly. Look for causes such as mold etc. and consider having the
air tested by a professional. There are state of the art products today that
can cure most indoor air quality issues that are common to Florida households.
Consider a whole-house air purifier to clean the air of
mold, germs, allergens and contaminants. Dirty coils on your air conditioning
unit can also be a culprit of germs and bacteria. Having your AC unitmaintained could be a simple solution.
Always ask the help of a professional, there are plenty of
services that offer free consultation. Morgan Air offers a free second opinion
and plenty of discount options on maintenance or air quality products on their
website. Check it out today, give us a call if you suspect any of these
symptoms to be related to the indoor air quality of your home.
Morgan Air
Tampa, FL
813-500-7765
